White House unveils Christmas decor with a theme: ‘Spirit of America’

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The White House is ready for Christmas, and the decorations were unveiled on Monday, Dec. 2.

This year’s theme, “The Spirit of America,” pays tribute to traditions, customs, and history that make America great. The displays were designed by First Lady Melania Trump, an immigrant who is the first First Lady to be a naturalized citizen. This is her third year of being in charge of decorating the White House for the holidays, which have returned to be called “Christmas,” in the Trump White House.

During the Obama era, the White House Christmas displays were known as “Holiday Displays.”

https://obamawhitehouse.archives.gov/blog/2012/11/28/joy-all-first-lady-michelle-obama-previews-2012-white-house-holiday-decor

The White House decorations this year celebrate the courageous individuals who have shaped our country and kept the American spirit alive, the White House wrote in its description.

In the East Wing, the Gold Star Family Tree is a tribute to Gold Star families, those who lost loved ones in war. The tree was decorated by Gold Star families.

Around the corner, the East Colonnade is a timeline of American design, innovation, and architecture. Through the archways, the East Garden Room displays the First Family’s annual ornament and Christmas card. This year, both showcase the American flag.

Entering the Ground Floor Corridor, the Vermeil Room highlights the spirit of generosity of previous First Ladies. Two trees are illuminated with tones of blush and gold and pieces of historic vermeil. In the Library, the legacies of Presidents are celebrated with past and present White House Historical Association annual ornaments. 

The 2019 ornament is featured on the center tree and honors President Dwight D. Eisenhower.

Upstairs in the East Room are four star-spangled trees, decorated with stars and cascading ribbons, and topped with gilded eagles, the national bird. Various features of the American flag are incorporated.

For the 52nd year, the White House Crèche is on display.

Moving into the Parlors, the Green Room features beloved and classic Christmas tales, the White House Advent calendar. A time-honored tradition, the official White House Christmas tree is in the Blue Room and measures 18 feet tall. It is decorated with floral emblems from every state and territory.

The Red Room is decorated with games.

The Gingerbread House features the South Portico of the White House and landmarks from across the country, including the Golden Gate Bridge, Space Needle, Mount Rushmore, the Alamo, Gateway Arch, Liberty Bell, and Statue of Liberty. It was made by the White House pastry team of 200 lbs. of gingerbread dough, 125 lbs. of pastillage dough, 35 lbs. of chocolate, and 25 lbs. of royal icing.

Ending in the Grand Foyer and Cross Hall, guests find themselves in a glistening winter garden, filled with 22 evergreens, 14 golden magnolia topiaries, 10 floral urns, and dusted with decorative snow.

“This Christmas season I want to honor those who have shaped our country and made it the place we are proud to call home, and I am excited to announce our White House holiday theme, ‘The Spirit of America’ ” said First Lady Melania Trump. “When I travel the country, I am inspired by the hard working people and families that I meet. No matter which state they call home, many Americans share a strong set of values and deep appreciation for the traditions and history of our great nation. Thank you to all of the staff and volunteers who worked to make sure the People’s House was ready for Christmas. Wishing everyone a very Merry Christmas and Happy New Year”.

Throughout the month of December, the White House welcomes guests to open houses, tours, and receptions.

3 COMMENTS

  1. Thank you to our First Lady Malania Trump. You have brought back the true meaning of A MERRY CHRISTMAS! These are the traditions and value that The United States Of America have kept and fought for. GOD BLESS AMERICA!

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