(Washington, DC) The Metropolitan Police Department (MPD) has provided the following information regarding street closures and parking restrictions for the 2011 National Christmas Tree Lighting on Thursday, December 1, 2011. The ceremony for the Lighting of the National Christmas Tree is scheduled to take place from 4:15 pm to 7:00 pm on the Ellipse near the White House.

Road Closures:

• Beginning at approximately 4:15 p.m. on Thursday, December 1, 2011, and in effect until the completion of the ceremonies, there will be no traffic allowed northbound or southbound on 15th Street, NW, between E Street/Pennsylvania Avenue and Constitution Avenue, NW.
• Beginning at approximately 4:15 p.m. on Thursday, December 1, 2011, and in effect until the completion of the ceremonies there will also be no traffic allowed northbound or southbound on 17th Street, NW, between Constitution Avenue and New York Avenue, NW.

These street closings and related parking restrictions are subject to change without notice based upon prevailing conditions.

Traffic delays may occur during this event and motorists should consider alternative routes to avoid the area if possible. The Metropolitan Police Department and the Department of Transportation (DDOT) encourage motorists to expect increased pedestrian traffic around this event and to exercise caution.