The Centennial Tree! 2022’s tree was the 100th National Christmas Tree (and the 60th annual photographed by Al or Brian Nielsen). Decorating the base of the tree are heirloom tree toppers which had topped the tree in recent decades. The tree itself was planted in October 2021, replacing the prior tree which had succumbed to needle cast disease. This is the first white fir to be used as the National Christmas Tree, chosen because it is more resilient to disease.