Celebrating the Holidays at the White House
From the smell of fresh-baked cookies to decked out Christmas trees, many are looking to find holiday cheer amidst a less than holly-jolly year. A constant source of merriment each year, the White House is known for its winter festivities and sparkling decorations. While the First Lady has traditionally taken charge of getting its halls ready for Christmas, there’s a whole history behind holiday celebrations at America’s most-famous residence. In the spirit of the season, L’OFFICIEL looks at the best holiday traditions at the White House.
Christmas Parties
In addition to their private celebrations, the First Family hosts a line-up of Christmas parties each year. The first White House Christmas party was hosted by President John Adams in 1800, which they threw for their granddaughter, inviting White House staff and their children. Since then, a number of holiday parties have been hosted specifically for kids, complete with entertainment like clowns, Disney characters, and Santa Claus himself.
The National Christmas Tree
In 1889, the first Christmas tree was brought into the executive mansion and set up in the Yellow Oval Room. Then in 1909, President William H. Taft placed a tree in the Blue Room, where today’s official White House tree is put on display. The first National Christmas Tree was established in 1923 as the beginning of an annual tradition that includes a lighting ceremony.
Holiday Themes
By 1961, there were new traditions to bring holiday spirit, such as choosing an official theme for the White House Christmas Tree. At the time, First Lady Jacqueline Kennedy chose the Nutcracker Suite by Tchaikovsky—which First Ladies Barbara Bush and Hillary Clinton would later repeat. To keep with the Nutcracker theme, Kennedy decorated the tree with festive ornaments based on the classic ballet. In recent years, First Lady Melania Trump has made headlines for her pared back themes, filling the usual merry hallway with blood red trees in 2018 and stark white branches in 2017.
Santa Claus
When Santa Claus is in town, the White House makes sure to send an invitation. Over the years, Father Christmas has made appearances at the White House, whether to pay the First Family a visit or help unveil the decorations. In 1983, Mr. T even showed up dressed as Santa to help First Lady Nancy Reagan debut her decorations.
Gingerbread Houses
During the holidays, the White House chefs build elaborate replicas of 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue and other sentimental buildings for the First Family made of pure chocolate, homemade gingerbread, and marzipan details. These intricate treats are usually displayed in the State Dining Room, where visitors can view them in awe.
