WASHINGTON (REUTERS) - US President Barack Obama, joined by his wife, first lady Michelle Obama and his daughter Sasha lit the National Christmas tree on the Ellipse south of the White House one last time as the First Family on Thursday (Dec 1).

"It's time to light the tree, everybody!" Mr Obama said to the holiday gathering on the National Mall, before holding a countdown to the tree-lighting

Celebrities including Kelly Clarkson and other performers attended the ceremony.