Washington — Washington (AFP) – Melania Trump On Monday, she unveiled the White House holiday decorations whose theme is “Home is Where the Heart Is,” her first since resuming her role as first lady.
Its decor also indicates the decor of the coming year 250th anniversary With the signing of the Declaration of Independence in 1776 and the founding of the United States of America.
In change this year because The east wing was demolished, The official White House Christmas tree, and always is On display in the Blue Room, it also honors Gold Star Families, those who have lost a member during active military service.
That tree was usually in the East Wing and was the first thing visitors saw after entering those doors, but the building and the covered walkway, or portico, that connected it to the White House It was demolished by President Donald Trump in October as part of his plan to erect a large ballroom.
The East Room is decorated with red, white, blue and patriotic symbols, including golden eagle tree toppers, to highlight the upcoming America250 patriotic celebration. The trees are also decorated with stars, roses and oak leaves.
A statement issued by the White House said that Christmas is a time to celebrate what makes the United States exceptional, and that although every home has its own traditions, common values unite Americans.
“In every community, simple acts of kindness that reflect America’s enduring spirit of generosity, patriotism and gratitude lift us up,” the statement said. “These moments remind us that America’s heart is strong and that home is where the heart is.”
The White House said the First Lady chose every detail of the decor. Vacation planning starts months in advance.
Public tours of the White House were suspended a few months ago due to construction of the Ballroom, but are scheduled to resume Tuesday with an updated itinerary limited to the Presidential Room, the first lady’s office announced in October. The State Floor includes the East Room; Green, blue and red rooms; State Dining Room; Cross Hall. And the large foyer.
Tens of thousands of visitors are expected for holiday tours, receptions and parties this month. Visitors will now enter the White House through the doors of the North Portico on Pennsylvania Avenue, using a new, semi-permanent walkway and entrance.
The library and the Vermeil and China Rooms on the ground floor were cut off from the updated tour route due to construction work.
A small army of volunteer decorators and others helped decorate the halls of the Executive Mansion with 75 wreaths, 51 Christmas trees, more than 700 feet (213 m) of garlands, more than 2,000 strings of lights, more than 25,000 feet (7,620 m) of ribbon, more than 2,800 gold stars, more than 10,000 butterflies and 120 pounds (54 pounds). kg) of gingerbread.
Most of the work was done after the Trumps moved into their home in Palm Beach, Florida, on November 25 for the Thanksgiving holiday. They returned to the White House on Sunday.
The official White House Christmas tree in the Blue Room is decorated with gold stars in honor of families who have endured the ultimate sacrifice due to military service. The official tree traditionally recognizes each state and territory, and this year’s tree was decorated with ornaments displaying each state and territory’s official bird and flower.
The Green Room celebrates family fun, featuring portraits of the first and current presidents, George Washington and Donald Trump, respectively, each created using more than 6,000 LEGO puzzle pieces.
Thousands of butterflies decorate the Red Room and its tree in celebration of youth and in honor of Melania Trump Future Promotion Initiative which is part of it Be the best A child-focused initiative, to support people who have been in foster care.
The white gingerbread house on display in the formal dining room shows off the mansion’s south portico and offers a glimpse of the yellow oval room in the private living quarters on the second floor as currently decorated.
The First Lady’s signature Christmas wreaths with red bows adorn the exterior windows of the White House.
During Trump’s first administration, Melania Trump was secretly recorded in 2018 complaining about, among other things, performing traditional first lady duties, such as preparing for Christmas. The tapes were produced by Stephanie Winston Wolkoff, a former friend and senior adviser to the first lady, who wrote a book about their relationship and shared the tapes with CNN, which aired them.