The decorations for the White House last year were inspired by the peace and light of the holiday season. Over 300 volunteers from across the nation gathered at the White House to decorate inside and out using over 165,000 holiday lights, 28,000 ornaments, 2,300 doves, and 83 Christmas trees!
Last year's White House Christmas tree was a Fraser Fir from a farm in the Blue Ridge mountains. First Lady Jill Biden continued the tradition of inspecting the tree as it arrived at the North Portico via horse and carriage. The grand tree was placed in the Blue Room of the White House and will be decorated for the holidays.
Every November, volunteers from across the country work diligently to decorate the White House for the holiday season. This is a tremendous effort by many dedicated and enthusiastic people. To get an idea of the amount of work involved, read this blog post or that blog post by former volunteers.
The White House welcomes almost 50,000 visitors every year during the holiday season. Visitors receive an official White House Holiday guide. Scroll through the booklet below or download yours here:
You can view the White House Christmas decorations in December by signing up in advance for a White House tour. These tours are popular, so the sooner you submit your request, the better chance you will have to tour the White House next holiday season. You can submit a White House tour request up to 90 days in advance.
Every year, the White House invites special groups to attend one of many Holiday Open House events. Holiday-themed entertainers, musical groups, school bands, and choirs perform for guests during the White House Open Houses. Many volunteers are needed to help out with this event.
The lighting of the 2024 National Christmas Tree took place on Thursday December 5, 2024 on the Ellipse. Free tickets were made
available via an online lottery in October.
After the lighting ceremony, visitors are invited to view the National Christmas Tree, as well as the 58 surrounding trees honoring the states, territories, and District of Columbia throughout the month of December. More information here.
