The holiday theme for the White House last year drew inspiration from the way children perceive the festive season: fully immersed in the beauty and abundance
that surrounds them, joyful to be present with loved ones, and receptive to the "Magic, Wonder, and Joy" of the holidays.
Over 300 volunteers from across the nation gathered at the White House to decorate inside and out using over 142,000 holiday lights, 34,000 ornaments, 22,000 bells, and 98 Christmas trees!
Last year's White House Christmas tree was an 18-and-a-half-foot Fraser Fir from Cline Church Nursery in Fleetwood, NC. 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 this 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. Last year, the Holiday Open Houses were held December 5 - 24. 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 National Christmas Tree took place on November 30, 2023 on the Ellipse. Free tickets were
available via an online lottery in early November.
The public was invited to visit the National Christmas Tree beginning on December 2nd. More information here.
