Obamas get in holiday spirit at 'Christmas in Washington' concert

WASHINGTON — The Obamas celebrated the holiday season Sunday with “The Rock” and singers Rita Ora and Darius Rucker.

President Barack Obama and his family attended the 33rd annual “Christmas in Washington” concert Sunday at the National Building Museum. The event is a benefit for the Children’s National Health System.

Before the concert, Obama, his wife, Michelle, and daughters, Sasha and Malia, presented gifts— including a basket of children’s books— to former patients of the center. The six youngsters, dressed as elves, posed for portraits with the first family.

“Fast and Furious” actor Dwayne Johnson, also known as “The Rock,” hosted the concert and jokingly sang his own rendition of “Deck the Halls.”

Other performers at the Christmas celebration included Christina Perri, Aloe Blacc and Earth, Wind and Fire. Obama bopped his head to Hunter Hayes’ version of the Chuck Berry hit “Run, Run Rudolph.”

Following the carols, Obama reminded guests of the reason for the holiday.

“Jesus lived a life of peace, love, kindness and forgiveness,” he said. “During the hustle and bustle of the Christmas season, may we all do our best to follow his example.”

Obama also thanked servicemembers for their sacrifices.

The concert will be broadcast Friday evening on TNT.

STACY A. ANDERSON, Associated Press