It may not have the height or celebrity of the Rockefeller Center tree in New York City, but the National Christmas Tree in Washington has something that the New York spruce doesn't.

It's got the Washington Monument to its south, the White House to its north and a festive "Pathway of Peace" encircling it.

Visitors can see the National Christmas Tree up-close now through Jan. 1 at the Ellipse during the annual "Christmas Pageant of Peace," which also features nightly live music or dance, except Dec. 24-25.

The National Christmas Tree -- a 40-foot Colorado blue spruce decorated with thousands of lights -- is surrounded by 56 smaller, live decorated trees. This "Pathway of Peace" of small trees represents the 50 states, five U.S. territories and the District of Columbia.

The small trees have decorations from sponsoring organizations in each state and region.

See the National Christmas Tree and the "Pathway of Peace" trees 11 a.m.-11 p.m. now through Jan. 1. Hear live music and watch dance performances 6 p.m.-8:30 p.m. tonight through Monday and Dec. 26-30. Events take place at the Ellipse, which is at 15th and E streets N.W., just south of the White House. The use of public transportation is suggested. Free. Call 202-208-1631.