The Tradition of Christmas Trees in the White House

For over a century, the White House has been a symbol of American leadership, diplomacy, and hospitality. Each year, the President and First Lady welcome thousands of visitors and guests to celebrate the holidays and showcase the best of American traditions and culture. One of the most treasured traditions is the display of Christmas trees, ornaments, and lights that brighten up the halls and rooms of the White House.

However, selecting and decorating the perfect Christmas tree for the White House requires a lot of planning, coordination, and attention to detail. The Office of the First Lady works closely with the White House Horticulturist, the Chief Usher, and the White House Executive Pastry Chef to ensure that every aspect of the tree design and placement is impeccable. One critical element of the process is choosing the right type of tree, and in recent years, prelit artificial Christmas trees have become increasingly popular.

The Advantages of Prelit Artificial Christmas Trees

Prelit artificial Christmas trees have several advantages over authentic and traditional artificial trees. Firstly, they are safer and more practical, as they don’t shed needles or pose a fire hazard. Secondly, they are more customizable and versatile, as they come in different sizes, shapes, textures, and colors and can be easily decorated with lights, baubles, ribbons, or garlands. Thirdly, they are more sustainable and eco-friendly, as they can be reused, recycled, or donated after the holiday season.

The White House has embraced the trend of prelit artificial Christmas trees and has featured them prominently in recent years. For example, in 2018, First Lady Melania Trump chose a stunning red and gold prelit artificial tree for the Grand Foyer, along with several matching wreaths, topiaries, and garlands. The tree was 18 feet tall and had over 14,000 ornaments and 500 feet of ribbon. It took several days to assemble and decorate, but the result was breathtaking and fitting for the grandeur of the White House.

Furthermore, the prelit artificial Christmas trees used in the White House are not randomly selected but are carefully curated and chosen by a special committee known as the Court. The Court comprises volunteers from various states and regions of the country who travel to the White House and evaluate the quality, appearance, and sustainability of the trees. The Court also considers the cultural and historical significance of the trees and their origins and ensures that they meet the criteria of the National Christmas Tree Association.

In conclusion, prelit artificial Christmas trees have become a favorite choice for the White House during the holidays, thanks to their safety, versatility, and sustainability. The President and First Lady, along with the Court, have played an essential role in selecting and showcasing the best trees for the White House, and each year, they create a new and memorable experience for visitors and guests. The prelit artificial Christmas trees at the White House are not only beautiful but also symbolic of the American spirit and values that unite us during the most beautiful time of the year.