X-mas at White House

The White House is coming alive with the festive spirit.

Michelle Obama

The White House is coming alive with the festive spirit. In the picture, US first lady Michelle Obama reads

Twas the Night Before Christmas

to children during an event to light the White House Christmas tree in Washington on Thursday.

After the lighting, Sheryl Crow sang

Jingle Bell Rock

. Hip-hop artist Common rapped as a children’s group sang, while

American Idol

winner Jordin Sparks dazzled onlookers with her performance.