Entry bubble Holiday Season at the White House

By: Colleen | December 03, 2008 | Category: Fun

white house christmas

Although wreathes and trees have popped up in stores and certain radio stations have been playing 'round the clock Christmas music since Halloween, the holiday season is now officially upon us. I'll be the first to admit that I'm kinda "bah humbug" about the whole thing, but if there's one part of the season I really do enjoy, it's seeing all the houses lit up and decorated for Christmas.

That said, what better residence to take a look at during the holiday season than the White House? As a kid, when asked what I wanted to be when I grew up, I'd almost always say, "White House party planner." So, I guess there's just something about the idea of festivities at the most prominent address in the world that gets me giddy about the holidays.

White House Christmas Tree: Each year a theme is picked for that year's holiday décor. Although many trees can be found throughout the White House, there is always a main one decorated in the theme of the First Lady's choosing. This year's tree was delivered on November 30th and comes from North Carolina.

Holiday Card: President Coolidge issued the first Christmas message to the American people in 1927. This has since developed into the yearly issuing of a holiday card. Often they feature the Presidential seal, photograph, or artwork by an American artist of a winter White House scene.

National Christmas Tree: This living Christmas tree was planted on the Ellipse, south of the White House, in 1978. It is lit each year, and serves as a year-round reminder of the spirit of the holiday season.

Menorah Lighting: An electric menorah is placed in Lafayette Park, across from the White House, to commemorate the "festival of lights." President Clinton lit the first menorah in the West Wing, and President George W. Bush was the first to have one lit in the White House residence.

Ornaments: Every year the White House issues an official ornament. They usually commemorate a specific President or other significant event for the year, such as the 200th anniversary of the White House. Living in the DC area, I like to get these as gifts for family members.

Other fun stuff: Follow along with First Dog Barney as he makes his way through the White House this season. Want a tasty treat? Check out the First Lady's hot chocolate recipe. Leading up to the new year, the President leaves a message for those observing Kwanzaa.

What kind of special holiday decorating do you do? What traditions do you maintain?

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