Melania Trump Introduces Inaugural Christmas Decor at the White House

Post by : Bianca Suleiman

On Monday, Melania Trump unveiled the inaugural Christmas decorations at the White House since her family’s return, showcasing a festive theme dubbed “Home Is Where the Heart Is.” The decorations set the stage for next year’s 250th anniversary celebrations of the United States, lending a patriotic flair to this year’s festivities.

The Executive Mansion has undergone a dramatic transformation thanks to the contributions of numerous volunteers nationwide. The scale of the decorations is impressive: 75 wreaths, 51 Christmas trees, over 700 feet of garland, 25,000 feet of ribbon, 2,800 gold stars, 10,000 butterflies, and 120 pounds of gingerbread have come together to create a jubilant holiday atmosphere.

This year’s setup includes a significant alteration. President Donald Trump’s anticipated ballroom renovation has led to the demolition of the East Wing and its colonnade, changing visitor pathways throughout the building. The traditional official White House Christmas tree, normally placed in the East Wing, now proudly stands in the Blue Room, serving as a tribute to Gold Star families with gold stars and state-themed ornaments.

Although construction is ongoing, public tours will recommence on Tuesday with a modified route restricted to the State Floor. Guests will traverse through the East Room, Green, Blue, and Red Rooms, the State Dining Room, Cross Hall, and the Grand Foyer, while the Ground Floor, including the Library and the Vermeil and China Rooms, remains off-limits.

Despite the temporary hurdles, the White House anticipates tens of thousands of visitors for holiday tours, receptions, and festive gatherings. Entry will now be facilitated through the North Portico via a newly installed semi-permanent walkway.

Each room is themed distinctly. The East Room features red, white, and blue decor with golden eagle toppers, celebrating the upcoming America250 festivities. In the Green Room, family-friendly decorations include large portraits of George Washington and Donald Trump created from more than 6,000 Lego-style puzzle pieces. The Red Room, filled with thousands of blue butterflies, focuses on youth and nods to Melania Trump’s Fostering the Future initiative.

A seasonal favorite, the gingerbread White House in the State Dining Room features the South Portico and a detailed depiction of the Yellow Oval Room. This exquisite creation uses a significant quantity of gingerbread, chocolate, pastillage, and royal icing, honoring a cherished holiday tradition.

Melania Trump and Usha Vance, wife of Vice President JD Vance, dedicated part of the day at Joint Base Andrews to assembling care packages and holiday cards for deployed service members alongside military spouses, highlighting the resilience of families supporting loved ones in service during long separations.