The White House Christmas decorations for 2019 were a stunning display of creativity and elegance, transforming the Executive Mansion into a festive wonderland. Here are five must-see decorations from that year which not only highlighted the talents of the White House staff but also captured the spirit of the holiday season:
1. The Grand Foyer’s Spiral Tree
A standout feature was the grand spiral tree that adorned the White House foyer. This tree stood at an impressive 35 feet tall, adorned with ribbons and lights winding up in a spiraling ascent. This majestic focal point was a nod to the traditional White House tree, yet its spiraling design brought a modern twist.
- Spiral design: Created a mesmerizing pattern as viewed from different angles.
- Color scheme: Predominantly white and silver with accents of gold, enhancing the tree’s elegance.
🎅 Note: The White House team meticulously plans these decorations months in advance to ensure every detail is perfect.
2. The Library’s Gingerbread House
Each year, the White House staff constructs an enormous gingerbread house, and 2019 was no exception. This year’s theme was inspired by architectural elements from different White Houses, making it not just a display of culinary art but also a historical representation.
- Size: Over 7 feet tall, filled with real-life architecture and ornate decorations.
- Details: Included miniature versions of White House pets, gardens, and historical ornaments.
🍬 Note: The gingerbread house is made of real gingerbread, which requires baking in large, specialized ovens.
3. The Blue Room’s National Tree
In the Blue Room, the national Christmas tree was placed, symbolizing unity and the peace of the holiday season. This tree was decorated with unique ornaments from all states and territories of the United States, showcasing the diversity of the nation.
- Ornaments: Each state and territory contributed unique, handcrafted ornaments.
- Lighting ceremony: The tree was lit in an event attended by hundreds, symbolizing the spirit of America coming together.
4. The Library’s Santa’s Sleigh Installation
A playful yet sophisticated Santa’s Sleigh was installed in the library, designed to look as though it had just landed through the grand window, complete with artificial snow. This installation:
- Interactive: Guests could walk around the sleigh to see the meticulously crafted details.
- Artistic touch: The sleigh and the “landing site” were designed with attention to every detail, from the reindeer to Santa’s sack of toys.
5. The State Dining Room’s Christmas Village
The State Dining Room was transformed into a festive Christmas village, featuring miniature buildings reminiscent of American townships. This setup:
- Small-town charm: Included detailed scenes of life in various American towns.
- Moving parts: Tiny figures of people and trains moved, adding life to the village tableau.
🌃 Note: The Christmas village is a reflection of how different parts of America celebrate the holiday season.
The White House's holiday decorations for 2019 were not just a visual treat but also a symbol of unity, tradition, and the joy of the season. These decorations, crafted with skill and love, remind visitors of the festive spirit and the rich history of the United States during Christmas.
Who designs the White House Christmas decorations?
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The White House decorations are typically designed by the First Lady’s office, with input from various White House staff members and often professional designers.
How long does it take to set up the White House Christmas decorations?
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The process can take several weeks, often starting well before Thanksgiving, with teams working around the clock to ensure everything is ready for the lighting ceremony.
Can the public see the White House Christmas decorations?
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Yes, the White House hosts public tours during the holiday season, allowing visitors to view the decorations in person. Advance tickets are typically required.
Do the decorations change every year?
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Yes, each year features a unique theme, reflecting the interests and vision of the current First Family and their administration.
