The White House has undergone a stunning transformation this holiday season, emerging as a lavish winter wonderland. This welcoming spectacle is the culmination of the hard work put in by more than 300 volunteers and residence staff over the holiday weekend, making it even more special as it marks the last seasonal display under the Biden administration. The immense efforts of these individuals have led to the creation of a festive environment poised to evoke joy and celebrate the holiday spirit among the many visitors who will experience it firsthand.
This year, the theme of the White House decorations has been aptly entitled “A Season of Peace and Light,” as announced by the Office of the First Lady. The decorations perfectly embodied this theme, showcasing thousands of twinkling lights and beautifully crafted floating paper doves, which invoke the essence of peace and unity. This conscious decision to incorporate such symbols serves to remind everyone of the importance of peace and goodwill during the holiday season.
In a heartwarming welcome letter addressed to visitors, President Joe Biden and First Lady Jill Biden expressed their fondness for the holidays, which they called “a special place in our hearts”. They mentioned their commitment to opening the doors of the People’s House wider each year, emphasizing the spirit of goodwill and community around this time. The Bidens highlighted how the holiday season unites Americans in fellowship and faith, reminding everyone that collective strength arises from unity. Their message aims to inspire visitors and residents alike, as they encourage everyone to embrace the promise of peace and light as they move forward together.
Traditionally, around 100,000 visitors are welcomed to the White House each holiday season, granting them the opportunity to tour the elaborate decorations. Guests will venture through the East Wing and onward to majestic rooms like the Library, Vermeil Room, China Room, and Diplomatic Reception Room, each of which has been decorated with attention to detail. As they stroll through these iconic spaces, visitors will experience unique decor reflecting the holiday spirit.
The East Colonnade is filled with suspended brass bells that are tastefully adorned with red ribbons, setting an enchanting tone right from the start. The Library features a whimsical “forest of vintage ceramic Christmas trees,” each spinning on tree-shaped platforms. In the East Room, guests can marvel at a “reflective canopy” composed of shiny confetti, while the Blue Room showcases the official White House Christmas tree, creatively converted into a moving carousel.
Further elaborating on the displays, the Green Room offers a vibrantly decorated festive atmosphere featuring sparkly jewel tones and metallic pipe cleaner decorations. The State Dining Room is similarly enchanting, showcasing festive curtains made from swirling paper ribbons, complete with holiday-scented candles strategically placed throughout for an added aromatic charm.
Earlier this month, Jill Biden had the honor of receiving this year’s official Christmas tree, which hails from Cartner’s Christmas Tree Farm in North Carolina. This particular tree holds a remarkable story, having survived the ravages of Hurricane Helene, a distinction that was noted given the hardship faced by many trees at the family farm.
This year’s holiday decor extravaganza boasts an impressive collection, including 83 Christmas trees, nearly 9,810 feet of ribbon, more than 28,125 ornaments, and over 2,200 paper doves. The sheer scale of twinkling lights amounts to a staggering 165,075, showcasing the dedication and effort put into these decorations.
A highlight of the festivities is the annual White House-inspired gingerbread house, which is an incredible feat of culinary art and engineering. Constructed with various components, including 25 sheets of gingerbread dough, 10 sheets of sugar cookie dough, and meticulous icing work, this masterpiece features mechanized figurines skating atop a dazzling lake made of icing, captivating both children and adults alike.
Leading this festive effort was event planner Bryan Rafanelli, known for organizing multiple state dinners during Biden’s tenure. To ensure that all decorations were in place before the holiday, volunteers worked tirelessly around the clock while the first family were away in Nantucket for Thanksgiving.
To kick off the celebrations, Jill Biden will be welcoming National Guard families as the first to tour the dazzling decorations on Monday, symbolizing the community spirit and gratitude embedded in this holiday season. The entire endeavor reflects a commitment not only to tradition but also to fostering connections with those who serve the nation.
