Watch: Barack Obama & Michelle light up White House Christmas tree, sing carols

Flanked by his wife, two daughters and mother-in-law, US President Barack Obama led the countdown in windy President's Park.

From left, Stephen Stills, members of the Joyous String Quartet, Graham Nash, Miss Piggy, Santa, President Barack Obama, Andra Day, and Aloe Blacc gather on stage during the National Christmas Tree Lighting ceremony at the Ellipse in Washington.

Washington: US President Barack Obama and his family led the lighting of the National Christmas Tree on Thursday, with charity, thanks, and a moment of reflection for the victims of Wednesday's shooting in California.

"Five, four, three, two, one. Merry Christmas, everybody!" Obama said as the national tree took sparkle for the 93rd year.

Flanked by his wife, two daughters and mother-in-law, Obama led the countdown in windy President's Park, across the street from their home at the White House, in a celebration that included performances by pop singer Aloe Blacc and rock band Fall Out Boy, reports Reuters.

Watch the video here: