The holiday season has arrived, as well has 53 Christmas trees that have been placed in the White House.
The Trump Administration revealed its Christmas decorations for the first time on November 27th. The decorations included 53 Christmas trees, 71 Christmas wreaths, around 12,000 ornaments, and a 300-pound gingerbread replication of the White House.
Melania Trump played a major role in the decoration decisions for the White House, claiming her inspiration was “classic Christmas décor”.
With 25,000 visitors expected to tour the house, the holiday season is always a busy time for the White House. Lighting the National Christmas Tree is always a big deal in the nation’s capital, kicking off the holiday festivities. However, the turnout was less than impressive.
“I think the decorations are beautiful and it definitely brings the festivity to D.C.,” said senior Ari Porter.
The White House has hosted Christmas parties since the 1800s. Each president has had their own theme for the decorations. This year, Trump made the theme “Time Honored Traditions” as a way to pay homage to past White House traditions.
Along with having classic decorations every year, each president offers their own spin on the White House.
“I think it’s cool that whoever is in office brings something unique to the traditions and doesn’t do the exact thing every holiday season,” said Porter.
Some of the rooms were adorned in a very traditional manner, with large Christmas trees with lace and tinsel around the room. Some trees match the theme and color scheme of the room in which they reside very well.
However, there were some less traditional decorating decisions made, such as in the hallway of the East Wing. The hallway was lined on both sides with leafless, snow-white branches in pots, rather than traditional evergreens. Reactions to it varied.
“[The hallway is] just dark and feels uninviting,” said senior Gabby Lozano.
The tension between Trump and the media does not subside, even with the holiday season. After showcasing the decorations, Trump made a speech about how there seems to be a “war on Christmas” because stores are now hesitant to say “Merry Christmas” but instead say “Happy Holidays”.
“While Trump has every right to celebrate Christmas, I think he needs to keep in mind the fact that he’s not only leading, but representing, a diverse nation,” said senior Leslie Lermo.