While this past year looked very different as the world combatted the coronavirus pandemic, many are heading into the holiday season unsure what it will look like compared to past years.
However, the White House is pressing forward in continuing its tradition with the Christmas season. First Lady Melania Trump unveiled this year’s Christmas decorations at the White House on Monday.
For the First Family’s fourth Christmas in the White House, the theme is “America the Beautiful,” which is “a tribute to the majesty of our great Nation,” the press release reads.
Trump said in a statement, “Over the past four years I have had the honor to travel to some of our nation’s most beautiful landmarks and meet some of the most compassionate and patriotic American citizens. From coast to coast, the bond that all American’s share is an appreciation for our traditions, values, and history, which were the inspiration behind the decorations this year.”
Watch the video below:
During this special time of the year, I am delighted to share “America the Beautiful” and pay tribute to the majesty of our great Nation. Together, we celebrate this land we are all proud to call home. #WHChristmas pic.twitter.com/fdZmB3rdXL
— Melania Trump 45 Archived (@FLOTUS45) November 30, 2020
“America the Beautiful” #Christmas at the @WhiteHouse pic.twitter.com/2kCBET7EcL
— Melania Trump 45 Archived (@FLOTUS45) November 30, 2020
The Gold Star Family Tree, which is an annual tradition, can be seen in the East Wing, where families “placed the name of their fallen family member on ribbon that will adorn the tree,” the press release reads.
Holiday cards sent by first families of the past 12 administrations are showcased in the East Garden Room.
The White House Library “is home to a collection of more than 2,700 classic works that provide first-hand accounts of progress in our Nation’s history,” the press release reads. It adds, “The décor highlights women at the forefront of American achievements who have paved the way for generations to come.” The decoration in the White House library recognizes the 100th anniversary of the ratification of the 19th Amendment.
The official White House Christmas tree — which is more than 18 feet tall — is located in the Blue Room, where it “showcases the splendor of our country through the unique perspective of America’s children.”
“Students across the country were asked to artistically depict what makes their state beautiful by highlighting the people, places, and things that capture the spirit of the state in which they call home,” the press release reads.
With the coronavirus pandemic still raging across the U.S., the decorations in the Red Room honor frontline workers and first responders.
The 2020 Gingerbread House is “275 pounds of gingerbread dough, 110 pounds of pastillage dough, 30 pounds of gum paste, 25 pounds of chocolate, and 25 pounds of royal icing.” It “replicates the West Wing, Executive Residence, East Wing, and for the first time, the Rose Garden and the First Ladies’ Garden,” according to the press release.
This weekend, volunteers from all across America have come to decorate the @WhiteHouse for the holiday season. Thank you for your time, enthusiasm & devotion to make sure the spirit of peace & joy fill the historic rooms & halls of the People’s House! #WHChristmas pic.twitter.com/k1VAqCpCgk
— Melania Trump 45 Archived (@FLOTUS45) November 28, 2020
Each year the arrival of the #WHChristmas tree brings a spirit of holiday warmth & tradition to the @WhiteHouse. This year’s tree will continue to bring joy to those who will pass through the halls of the White House during this most wonderful time of the year. pic.twitter.com/RVHkWtoaWo
— Melania Trump 45 Archived (@FLOTUS45) November 23, 2020
Trump added in a statement, “Thank you to all of the staff and volunteers who worked to make sure the People’s House was ready for the holiday season. Wishing everyone a Merry Christmas and a happy and healthy New Year.”
