The 2017 Christmas decorations at the White House are set to be a spectacle of holiday joy and tradition, showcasing themes that honor American history, family values, and the spirit of giving. With the release of the White House Christmas decor schedule, let's dive into what this year's celebrations will entail.
When the Magic Begins
The holiday season at the White House traditionally kicks off with the lighting of the National Christmas Tree in early December. Here’s the schedule for this year:
- November 20 - Setup begins
- November 27 - First family’s private tour
- November 30 - First Lady’s Christmas Video and Preview
- December 1 - National Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony
- December 2 - January 1 - Public Tours of White House Christmas Decorations
- December 24 - Christmas Eve festivities
- December 25 - Christmas Day, President and First Family’s Private Celebration
🔔 Note: Public tours are available on a first-come, first-served basis, with limited availability during peak times. Advanced booking is recommended.
The Themes for 2017
The White House always crafts themes that resonate with the year’s events or presidential focus areas. For 2017:
- Honoring American Heroes - Highlighting those who serve or have served the nation.
- Joy of the Season - Celebrating the shared joy of the holiday with families and children across America.
- Nature’s Beauty - Showcasing the magnificence of the American landscape through holiday decor.
The Decorations
Each room in the White House will be adorned with unique decorations, but let’s take a closer look at some key areas:
| Location | Description |
|---|---|
| Blue Room | The Official White House Christmas tree, often themed around the year’s overarching idea. |
| East Room | A tribute to American heroes, featuring memorabilia and decorated wreaths honoring each branch of the military. |
| Grand Staircase | Decorated to evoke the beauty of nature, with flowing streams, seasonal plants, and fauna. |
| State Dining Room | A celebration of family, featuring an intimate setting with vintage toys and family portraits. |
🍂 Note: For the first time, the White House has opted for eco-friendly decorations, emphasizing sustainability.
Preparing the White House for Christmas
Transforming the White House into a winter wonderland is a monumental task, involving:
- Setting up the lighting - Over 50,000 LED lights are used across the grounds.
- Ornament crafting - Each ornament is handcrafted to fit the year’s themes.
- Floral displays - Fresh greens and flowers from across the U.S. are used to bring the natural beauty indoors.
- Crafting the White House Gingerbread House - A tradition since 1884, the gingerbread house is a highlight, reflecting the year’s theme.
Special Events
Beyond the decoration, several events make the White House a focal point for holiday celebrations:
- Christmas Pageant of Peace - Performances by school children from around the country.
- Presidential Turkey Pardon - A humorous event where the President “pardons” two lucky turkeys.
- White House Hanukkah Celebration - Lighting the National Menorah to honor the Festival of Lights.
The 2017 White House Christmas decorations bring together the spirit of the nation, celebrating not just the holidays but also the history, unity, and joy that define America during this season of giving. From the setup to the various events, each aspect of the White House Christmas is designed to share the holiday spirit with the American people and the world.
How can I attend the White House Christmas tours?
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Public tours of the White House Christmas decorations are available on a first-come, first-served basis. Advanced booking is recommended to secure a slot.
What are the themes for the 2017 White House Christmas?
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The themes for 2017 include ‘Honoring American Heroes,’ ‘Joy of the Season,’ and ‘Nature’s Beauty,’ celebrating the nation’s service, the joy of family, and the beauty of America’s landscape.
Are there any special eco-friendly initiatives in the decor?
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Yes, the White House has incorporated eco-friendly materials and sustainable practices into the 2017 Christmas decorations for the first time.
