Photo by afagen

Several downtown streets will be closed at 3 p.m. today because of a tree.

Yes, the National Christmas Tree lighting ceremony is upon us and will take place at the Ellipse even in the rain. (Mariah Carey is not going to be happy.) Via the Metropolitan Police Department, here are the streets that will be shut down until the ceremony ends, likely around 7 p.m.

15th Street, NW from Constitution Avenue, NW to E Street, NW

15th Street, NW and New York Avenue, NW

15th Street, NW and G Street, NW

15th Street, NW and Pennsylvania Avenue, NW

15th Street, NW and F Street, NW

15th Street, NW and Constitution Avenue, NW

17th Street, NW Northbound from Constitution Avenue, NW to State Place/New York Avenue, NW

17th Street, NW from C Street, NW to E Street, NW

18th Street, NW Eastbound from D Street to E Street, NW

And here’s a friendly and welcome reminder from MPD.

Drivers are reminded that making a U-turn through a bicycle lane is prohibited, regardless of whether a bicyclist is present. Any violation is subject to a $100 fine. A bicycle lane runs the entire length of Pennsylvania Avenue NW, from 3rd Street, NW, to 15th Street, NW. Officers with the Metropolitan Police Department will be enforcing the prohibition on U-turns and other traffic laws during the Tree Lighting ceremony.

Don’t risk getting a $100 ticket: either use an alternate route or be patient while sitting in traffic.

Metro is also warning of bus delays and detours for the following routes: “3Y, 7Y, 11Y, 16X, 16Y, 32, 36, 37, 39, 42, 43, 52, 53, 54, 80, D1, D3, D5, D6, G8, H1, L1, N2, N3, N4, P6, P17, P19, S1, S2, S4, S9, W13, X1 and X2.” Thanks a lot, Christmas tree.