Decorating The White House Christmas Tree

The White House Christmas tree is a beloved American tradition that dates back to 1889, when President Benjamin Harrison first decorated a tree in the White House. Since then, the tradition has continued to grow and evolve, with each First Lady bringing her own unique style and flair to the holiday decorations.

The process of decorating the White House Christmas tree is a labor of love that involves months of planning and preparation. It begins in the summer, when the White House Social Office sends out a call for bids to select a tree farm to provide the official White House Christmas tree. The winning farm is typically announced in the fall, and the tree is harvested and transported to Washington, D.C. in late November.

Once the tree arrives at the White House, it is carefully placed in the Blue Room, where it is decorated by a team of volunteers and White House staff. The decorating process typically takes several days, with the team working tirelessly to hang thousands of ornaments, lights, and garlands on the tree.

Each year, the First Lady selects a theme for the White House Christmas decorations, which serves as a guide for the decorating team. Past themes have included "A Winter Wonderland," "A Holiday in the Country," and "A Season of Joy." The theme is reflected in the decorations throughout the White House, including the tree, the mantels, and the wreaths on the doors.

History of the White House Christmas Tree

The tradition of having a Christmas tree in the White House began in 1889, when President Benjamin Harrison decorated a tree in the White House with candles, garlands, and ornaments. The tradition was continued by President Grover Cleveland, who decorated a tree in the White House in 1890.

However, it wasn't until the 1960s that the White House Christmas tree became a major event. In 1961, First Lady Jacqueline Kennedy began the tradition of having a large Christmas tree placed in the Blue Room, where it could be enjoyed by the public.

Since then, the White House Christmas tree has become a beloved American tradition. Each year, thousands of people visit the White House to see the tree and the holiday decorations.

Themes of the White House Christmas Tree

Over the years, the themes of the White House Christmas tree have reflected the interests and personalities of the First Ladies. Some notable themes include:

1961: "A Tree of Life" - First Lady Jacqueline Kennedy's theme featured a tree decorated with white and silver ornaments, as well as a beautiful Nativity scene.
1975: "A Bicentennial Tree" - First Lady Betty Ford's theme featured a tree decorated with red, white, and blue ornaments, as well as garlands made of flowers and greenery.
1984: "A Victorian Christmas" - First Lady Nancy Reagan's theme featured a tree decorated with Victorian-style ornaments, as well as a beautiful train that ran around the base of the tree.
1992: "A Holiday in the Country" - First Lady Barbara Bush's theme featured a tree decorated with ornaments made from natural materials, such as pinecones and holly.

Decorating the White House Christmas Tree

The process of decorating the White House Christmas tree is a labor of love that involves months of planning and preparation. Here's a step-by-step guide to how the tree is decorated:

Selecting the Tree: The White House Social Office sends out a call for bids to select a tree farm to provide the official White House Christmas tree. The winning farm is typically announced in the fall, and the tree is harvested and transported to Washington, D.C. in late November.
Preparing the Tree: Once the tree arrives at the White House, it is carefully placed in the Blue Room, where it is prepared for decorating. This includes fluffing out the branches and adding any necessary supports to the tree.
Decorating the Tree: The decorating process typically takes several days, with the team working tirelessly to hang thousands of ornaments, lights, and garlands on the tree. The team is led by the First Lady, who selects the theme and overall design of the tree.
Adding the Finishing Touches: Once the tree is decorated, the team adds the finishing touches, including a star or angel on top of the tree, as well as any additional decorations, such as presents or a Nativity scene.

White House Christmas Tree by the Numbers

Height: The White House Christmas tree is typically around 18-20 feet tall.
Ornaments: The tree is decorated with thousands of ornaments, including glass balls, snowflakes, and other decorations.
Lights: The tree is lit with thousands of lights, which are carefully placed to create a beautiful and festive display.
Garlands: The tree is decorated with garlands made of greenery, flowers, and other materials.
Volunteers: The decorating process is led by a team of volunteers, who work tirelessly to decorate the tree and the rest of the White House.

Visiting the White House Christmas Tree

The White House Christmas tree is a popular tourist attraction, with thousands of people visiting the White House each year to see the tree and the holiday decorations. Here's how to visit the White House Christmas tree:

Request Tickets: Tickets to visit the White House Christmas tree are available through the White House website. Requests must be made at least 21 days in advance.
Security Check: Visitors must go through a security check before entering the White House.
Tour the White House: Visitors can take a self-guided tour of the White House, which includes the Blue Room, where the Christmas tree is located.
View the Tree: Visitors can view the Christmas tree and take photos in front of the tree.

Tips for Visiting the White House Christmas Tree

Plan Ahead: Request tickets well in advance, as they often sell out quickly.
Security: Be prepared for security checks, which may include metal detectors and bag checks.
Dress Code: Dress warmly, as the White House can be cold, especially in the winter months.
Respect the Tree: Be respectful of the tree and the White House decorations, and do not touch or attempt to climb the tree.