President Barack Obama, his daughter Sasha, event host Carson Daly and Santa Claus wave to the crowd during the final song of the night. Marie McGrory | Hatchet Staff PhotographerAttendees of the National Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony admire the tree as it is lit in President's Park Thursday night. Marie McGrory | Hatchet Staff PhotographerKermit the Frog joins first lady Michelle Obama on stage as she reads the classic, 'Twas the night before Christmas,' to children on stage. Marie McGrory | Hatchet Staff PhotographerRyan Tedder, lead singer of award-winning band OneRepublic, sings the band's newly released song 'Christmas Without You.' Marie McGrory | Hatchet Staff PhotographerSanta Claus emerges from a giant gift box to join Kermit the Frog on stage at the National Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony. Marie McGrory | Hatchet Staff Photographer