Melania Trump has officially unveiled the White House holiday decorations for December 2023, adopting the theme “Home Is Where the Heart Is.” This marks her first holiday season since resuming the role of First Lady. The decor not only reflects personal sentiment but also pays tribute to the upcoming 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence in 1776 and the founding of the United States.
The Christmas tree, traditionally displayed in the Blue Room, honors Gold Star families, those who have lost a member during military service. This year’s placement is particularly noteworthy as the East Wing was demolished in October as part of a project initiated by former President Donald Trump to build a large ballroom. The official tree, which is typically the first seen by visitors entering through the East Wing, has been relocated, with public tours resuming on December 5, 2023.
Patriotic Decor and Community Spirit
The East Room is decorated in patriotic red, white, and blue, adorned with symbols of national pride, including golden eagle tree toppers. The decorations emphasize the forthcoming America250 national celebration, showcasing trees embellished with stars, roses, and oak leaves. A statement from the White House emphasizes the significance of the season, stating, “Christmas is a time to celebrate what makes the U.S. exceptional,” and noting that shared values unite Americans.
The First Lady personally oversaw every detail of this year’s decor, with planning starting months in advance. Despite the construction work, which has limited public access to some areas of the White House, tens of thousands of visitors are expected for holiday tours, receptions, and parties throughout December.
Visitors will now enter through the North Portico doors on Pennsylvania Avenue, using a newly constructed semi-permanent walkway. The updated tour route includes the State Floor, which comprises the East Room, Green, Blue, and Red Rooms, the State Dining Room, Cross Hall, and Grand Foyer. Notably, the Library and the Vermeil and China Rooms have been excluded from this route due to ongoing construction.
Exquisite Decorations and Community Initiatives
This year’s holiday decor involved a significant effort from a dedicated team of volunteers, who utilized 75 wreaths, 51 Christmas trees, over 700 feet of garland, more than 2,000 strands of lights, and over 25,000 feet of ribbon. Additionally, the decorations included more than 2,800 gold stars, over 10,000 butterflies, and 120 pounds of gingerbread. Most of the decorating took place while the Trumps were in Palm Beach, Florida, for Thanksgiving, returning to the White House on November 25, 2023.
The official Christmas tree in the Blue Room features ornaments that showcase the official bird and flower of each state and territory, honoring families who have made significant sacrifices. The Green Room highlights family fun, displaying portraits of George Washington and Donald Trump, each created using over 6,000 Lego puzzle pieces. The Red Room is adorned with thousands of butterflies, reflecting Melania Trump’s Fostering the Future initiative, part of her broader Be Best program aimed at supporting youth in foster care.
A gingerbread model of the White House, displayed in the State Dining Room, captures the mansion’s South Portico and provides a glimpse into the current decoration of the private living quarters. The exterior of the White House features signature Christmas wreaths with red bows, adding a festive touch to the historic residence.
The unveiling of this year’s holiday decorations not only showcases the First Lady’s vision but also highlights the enduring spirit of community and patriotism that characterizes the season.
