A Magical Evening of Lights, History and Holiday Spirit

Marshall Plan Tree Walk Lighting Ceremony 2025

On a crisp Saturday evening at Dodona Manor, more than 100 guests gathered for an unforgettable moment of holiday warmth and history at the annual Marshall Plan Tree Walk Lighting Ceremony.

The Marshall Plan Tree Walk has fast become a beloved holiday tradition featuring 17 individually decorated trees, each representing one of the European nations that participated in the U.S.-sponsored Marshall Plan following World War II. Together, the illuminated trees symbolize the light, hope and renewed peace the Marshall Plan brought to a devastated Europe nearly 80 years ago.

Families enjoyed festive activities hosted by Marshall Center-sponsored Scout troops, including hot chocolate and a s’mores station. Children took part in hands-on fun at a holiday coloring station featuring the George C. Marshall statue and flags from each of the countries represented by the trees — blending creativity with a subtle history lesson.

Guests also posed for seasonal portraits with event photographers, creating lasting holiday memories.

Marshall Center Chairman Tom Greenspon welcomed guests and distinguished visitors, including Pedro Carneiro, Deputy Chief of Mission of the Embassy of Portugal, and Mathieu Esnault, Deputy Consul of the Embassy of France. As the sun set, Greenspon led the ceremonial lighting of the 17 trees.

“The lights we turn on today symbolize the lights of hope and peace that the Marshall Plan made possible nearly 80 years ago,” said Greenspon. “It was a signature moment of American strategic foresight and global leadership at a time when our nation and the world were recovering from global conflict.”

We extend our sincere thanks to the generous sponsors who make this free, public event possible, including MONOC, Paul Michaels (event and France tree sponsor), Fortinet Federal (USA tree), Kathleen Galvin & Helen Aikman, Eyetopia (three trees!), EIT 2.0, Visit Loudoun, The Hoff Family, Innovative Management Concepts, Keane Enterprises, AUSA – George Washington Chapter, Cucinamore, Mitchell Burns & Co. and Stacey Metcalfe.

We welcome you to stop by and check out the beautiful trees, which will remain illuminated throughout December, and tour the grounds to get a glimpse into the life of an American icon.