Potential spectators can apply this week for a chance to attend the 2012 National Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony that takes place near the White House on Dec. 6.

The lottery opens online at 10 a.m. Thursday and ends at 10 a.m. Oct. 29. Winners will be notified via email. The event is free to attend.

Now in its 90th year, the president speaks at the ceremony, where a military band and seasonal artists perform. In addition to the National Christmas Tree, 56 smaller trees make up the Christmas Pathway of Peace — one for each state, five territories and Washington, D.C.

Visit www.thenationaltree.org for more details.