Just like every year, the White House has decked the halls for the holiday season. With over 80 Christmas trees in total, President Trump and the first family have put on a wonderful display for those who work and live in the White House. This year’s theme is “American Treasures” and is meant to honor the unique heritage of the nation.
“This is a joyous time of year when we decorate the White House for the Christmas Season. Our theme honors the heart and spirit of the American people. Thank you to the many volunteers and staff who worked hard to decorate the halls of the People’s House in Christmas cheer. On behalf of my family, we wish everyone a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year,” First Lady Melania Trump said in a press release from the official White House website.
This year’s main Christmas tree, on display in the blue room, is an 18 foot fraser fir from Newland, North Carolina. The winner of the National Christmas Tree contest, Larry Smith, presented his prizewinning tree to the Trumps on Nov. 19.
However, this year’s White House decorations have many unique elements, most notably in the East Colonnade of the East Wing. There, visitors walk past 40 trees covered in red cranberry decorations. Although several people on social media mocked the unique decorations, the first lady is not concerned about the criticism, saying that the strong red color represents the bravery, heart and patriotism of the country.
“The State Dining Room is a celebration of our country’s national symbols, including the bald eagle, the rose, and the oak tree. The space is also host to this year’s gingerbread house, showcasing the full expanse of the National Mall: the Capitol, the Lincoln Memorial, the Jefferson Memorial, the Washington Monument, and, of course, the White House,” the White House said in an official press release.
The Cross Hall, which connects the State Dining Room to the East room, is decorated with 29 trees adorned with 14,000 red ornaments. In the Red Room, Melania’s platform “Be Best” takes center stage, with trees and wreaths decorated in pencils and ornaments containing the phrase.
While, this year’s theme is mainly focused on the color red, there are different colors across different rooms. For example, The Green Room, is decked with grains, fruits, and vegetables. The purpose of these decorations are to remind Americans of “the country’s bounty and harvest,” The White House said in a press release.
“The Vermeil room displays two trees that sparkle in hues of blues and golds amongst the vermeil on display for all to see. Inside the China Room are three tables, all replicas from previous state dinners using pieces from the White House permanent collection. They highlight different eras of state dinners. The Theodore Roosevelt Administration, John F. Kennedy Administration, and Donald J. Trump Administration are all represented,” The White House said in a press release.
In the East Wing, the Gold Star Family tree stands to honor those who have made the ultimate sacrifice for our nation. Decorated with blue ribbon and gold stars, visitors are also encouraged to write messages to their loved ones who are serving overseas on the tablets provided in the room.
Throughout December, the White House expects more than 30,000 visitors to tour the halls. With more than 100 open houses and receptions, Americans will have plenty of opportunities to appreciate the stunning decor this Holiday season.
