If you’ve ever wanted to visit the White House during the holidays, now’s your chance. Thanks to a virtual tour headed by the White House Historical Association, the general public can take a peek at how the Bidens and previous first families have decorated the big house for the holidays.
In 1961, First Lady Jacqueline Kennedy started the tradition of selecting holiday themes for the White House when she founded the nonprofit organization, which works to preserve the history of the storied presidential home. Her first holiday decor theme was inspired by “The Nutcracker.”
“The new White House Holiday Tour on our mobile app offers a unique look into the annual traditions and decor that past and present presidencies have adopted,” Stewart McLaurin, president of the White House Historical Association, said in a press release. “Our objective is always to provide the public access to the evolving history of the White House in honor of our founder, First Lady Jacqueline Kennedy.”
This year, President Joe Biden and First Lady Dr. Jill Biden have chosen the theme “Gifts from the Heart,” which reflects the acts of kindness that brought us together after a tough year caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. Decorations this year represent community, peace, gratitude and the arts.
Every November, according to the White House, 100 volunteers from across the country “work diligently to decorate the White House for the holiday season.”
Each room has at least one fully-decorated Christmas tree, including the Blue Room, which has a giant Fraser fir standing at over 18 feet tall.
To see all of the holiday goodness at the White House, check out the Holidays at the White House virtual online tour or through the White House Experience mobile app.
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