First Lady Melania Trump revealed the White House holiday decorations on December 1, 2025, marking the Trump family’s first Christmas back at the executive mansion. The theme, “Home Is Where the Heart Is,” emphasizes the American spirit of generosity, patriotism, and gratitude, according to the White House.
The decor also includes elements celebrating the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence, a milestone that will be observed throughout 2026. This year’s holiday display is particularly focused on patriotism.
Volunteer decorators from around the nation assisted in transforming the White House with 75 wreaths, 51 Christmas trees, over 700 feet of garland, and more than 10,000 butterflies. The first lady selected each detail of the decorations, with preparations starting months earlier.
This year’s display is notably different due to ongoing construction. President Donald Trump demolished the East Wing in October to build a large ballroom, altering the layout and visitor experience at the White House.
The official White House Christmas tree, located in the Blue Room, holds special meaning this year. The 18-foot concolor fir from Korson’s Tree Farms in Sidney, Michigan, honors Gold Star families who have lost members during military service. Previously, this tribute was in the East Wing, but the demolition required it to be part of the Blue Room tree.
The Blue Room tree features gold stars honoring these military families and ornaments representing the official bird and flower of each state and territory, maintaining the tradition of recognizing all U.S. states and territories.
The East Room showcases patriotic red, white, and blue decorations, with national symbols like golden eagle tree toppers, highlighting the upcoming America250 national celebration. Trees are adorned with stars, roses, and oak leaves.
The Green Room includes large portraits of George Washington and Donald Trump, constructed from over 6,000 Lego pieces. This room reflects family fun and childhood entertainment, capturing the holiday season’s spirit.
The Red Room is decorated with thousands of blue butterflies on its tree and wreaths, symbolizing young people. More than 10,000 butterflies honor Melania Trump’s Fostering the Future initiative, part of her Be Best program supporting individuals who have experienced foster care. The butterflies represent transformation and hope.
The gingerbread White House returns to the State Dining Room, featuring a replica of the mansion’s South Portico. The model required 120 pounds of gingerbread, 100 pounds of pastillage, and five pounds of royal icing.
Public tours, which were suspended due to the East Wing construction, resumed on December 2. Visitors will experience a modified tour limited to the State Floor, including the East Room, the Green, Blue, and Red Rooms, and the State Dining Room.
Visitors now enter through the North Portico doors instead of the traditional East Wing entrance.
A White House statement emphasized that Christmas is a time to celebrate American exceptionalism and shared values, stating “Home Is Where The Heart Is.”
The White House anticipates tens of thousands of visitors for holiday tours, receptions, and parties leading up to Christmas.
