The White House Christmas Decorations: A Celebration of Home and Heritage
The White House has been transformed into a festive wonderland for the holiday season, with decorations personally selected by First Lady Melania Trump. This year’s theme, “Home Is Where the Heart Is,” reflects her deep connection to the values of generosity, patriotism, and gratitude.
This is the fifth time Mrs. Trump has had the opportunity to decorate 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue for the Christmas season. Her vision includes an array of elements that highlight the American spirit, such as:
- Over 25,000 feet of ribbon
- More than 2,000 strands of light
- Over 120 pounds of gingerbread
- More than 2,800 gold stars
- Over 10,000 blue butterflies
- More than 700 feet of garland
The White House has also adorned its halls with 51 Christmas trees and 75 of Mrs. Trump’s signature wreaths. These wreaths, featuring classic red bows, hang outside the windows of the White House.
A Personal Touch and Patriotic Elements
Mrs. Trump shared her thoughts on the theme, saying, "The saying ‘Home is Where the Heart is’ resonates deeply with me, especially as I navigate the joys, challenges, and frequent motion that comes with motherhood and business." She emphasized that home is not just a physical space but a feeling of warmth and comfort that can be carried anywhere.
"This Christmas, let’s celebrate the love we hold within ourselves and share it with the world around us," she continued. "After all, wherever we are, we can create a home filled with grace, radiance, and endless possibilities."
The East Room is dedicated to the theme “Home Is Where the Heart Is: America, Our Home.” It features patriotic decorations in red, white, and blue, along with national symbols like eagles, the Great Seal, roses, and oak. The trees are decorated with 56 eagle ornaments representing each state and territory, and 250 stars to mark America's upcoming 250th anniversary.
A Celebration of Family and Sacrifice
The Green Room's theme is “Home is Where the Heart Is: Family Fun.” It highlights America’s favorite games and activities, including playing cards, Lego portraits of President Trump and George Washington, dominoes, and more.
In the Blue Room, the theme “Home is Where the Heart Is: Where Strength and Sacrifice Meets Home” honors Gold Star families. The decor features blue, gold, and ivory, with gold stars to honor these families. Custom lithophane ornaments depict each state and territory’s official bird and flower, symbolizing freedom, hope, and courage.
The custom ornaments were created using AI support and 3D printers, reflecting the first lady’s emphasis on AI education and responsible use.
A Focus on Fostering the Future
The Red Room focuses on the first lady’s “Fostering the Future” initiative, celebrating her “Be Best” program. The room is adorned with over 10,000 blue butterflies, symbolizing transformation and the hope that every child will have the chance to grow into their full potential.
Historic cranberry trees, a tradition first introduced in 1975, are also featured in this room. These trees became popular during former First Lady Nancy Reagan’s tenure.
A Place to Gather and Celebrate
The State Dining Room’s theme is “Home is Where the Heart Is: A Place to Gather,” showcasing the joy of hosting at home and the history of diplomacy at the White House. The decor includes custom tree boxes with hand-painted magnolia blossoms, gilded acorns, and fruits of harvest.
A gingerbread house, made of 120 pounds of gingerbread dough, 100 pounds of pastillage dough, over 10 pounds of chocolate, nearly 80 pounds of royal icing, and five pounds of isomalt sugar, offers a unique glimpse into the private residence of the White House.
Love Blooms in Every Corner
In the Grand Foyer and Cross Hall, the first lady highlighted a space called “Where Love Blooms.” The decor emphasizes the love that blooms in homes, families, and communities. The area features a forest of 28 trees in burgundy and gold, decorated with foliage, ribbon, ornaments, and taper candles. Planters filled with amaryllis represent strength and love, especially around the holidays.
A portion of the White House creche, or nativity scene, is featured in the grand foyer, though it is currently undergoing restoration.
Public Tours and Holiday Traditions
The White House will reopen its doors for public Christmas tours on December 2. These tours will feature the White House Christmas decorations on the state floor, allowing visitors to experience the beloved annual tradition that transforms the White House into a festive reflection of the spirit, warmth, faith, and hope of the holiday season.
