Students from McDonough Elementary will have their artwork featured on the New Hampshire state tree beside the National Christmas Tree in President’s Park in Washington, D.C.
This beloved holiday tradition, made possible by the National Park Foundation and the National Park Service, features 59 trees — one to represent each U.S. state, territory, and the District of Columbia as well as the Bureau of Indian Education, Department of Defense Education Activities, and America 250. Each tree is adorned with ornaments designed by K–12 students. The ornaments designed by McDonough students celebrate the unique culture, landmarks, and history of New Hampshire, bringing a piece of the Granite State to the nation’s capital.
"Our second graders were thrilled to participate in this special ornament project. We explored New Hampshire’s unique features, like the White Mountains, Old Man on the Mountain, and local heroes, inspiring students’ designs,” said McDonough second grade teacher Christy Burke.
The display is open to the public starting Dec. 6 through Jan. 1, 2026, and is free for all visitors. Ornaments can also be viewed online at www.thenationaltree.org/ornaments.