First Lady Jill Biden unveils stunning White House holiday decor
The White House radiates enchantment as First Lady Jill Biden presents a breathtaking spectacle of 98 Christmas trees, 72 wreaths, and 28 miles of ribbon, transforming it into an ethereal winter wonderland for the joyous holiday season
The White House has been turned into a traditional winter wonderland for the holidays, with 98 Christmas trees, 72 wreaths, and 2.8 miles of ribbon. Old mailboxes feature the magical appearance of letters to Santa Claus, and a vintage train circles the base of an 18.5-foot Fraser fir Christmas tree. Various candied treats adorn the halls, including a large gingerbread White House.
First Lady Jill Biden revealed the decorations on Monday, sharing that this year's theme was "Magic, Wonder and Joy" inspired by the marvel and awe of childhood. She welcomed National Guard and local military families as the first guests to experience the holiday décor, emphasizing that children inherently appreciate the beauty of nature such as the colorful mosaic of autumn leaves and the mesmerizing rhythm of snow falling from the night sky.
"The holiday season provides an opportunity for contemplation and a respite from our busy lives, a time to fully engage with our loved ones. It is also a time of expressing gratitude," she added.
The little engine that could: A vintage toy train chugs around the base of a Christmas tree in the Blue Room.
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"Children have valuable lessons to share if we are willing to listen: they show us how to stay present in a busy world, how to embrace love and wonder, and how to find beauty in the ordinary moments. Each room is designed to capture the pure and unfiltered delight and imagination of children."
The decorations, which also included 33,892 ornaments and 142,425 holiday lights, were installed over a week, with the help of more than 300 volunteers.
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The White House is anticipating approximately 100,000 visitors during the holiday season. The White House Historical Association revealed the design for this year's official Christmas ornament earlier in the year. The ornament, featuring a holiday wreath embellished with cherubs, dolls, doves, stars, flowers, gingerbread men, and more, draws inspiration from the handcrafted decorations used during the administration of the 38th president of the United States, Gerald Ford.
Previous years have featured ornaments such as a fire truck, steam train, and helicopter. These decorations aim to bring joy to homes and also highlight lesser-known stories from America's history.
Continue scrolling to view additional photos of this year's White House holiday decorations.
Listen closely and you'll hear the sounds of music and performance echoing through the Vermeil Room. Adorned with vibrant decorations, the room also boasts a remarkable mechanical theater showcasing revolving figures of the United States Marine Band.
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Santa Claus is coming to town: A papier-mâché Saint Nick and his reindeer fly across the grand foyer.
Evan Vucci/AP
Deck the halls: The White House's China Room transformed into a dessert shop, tables laden with festive treats.
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All I want for Christmas: Letters to Santa fly across a ground floor corridor.
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'Twas the night before Christmas: A peaceful scene in the library celebrates the quiet magic of bedtime stories.
Evan Vucci/AP
