First Lady Melania Trump presented the White House Christmas decorations on December 1, 2025, marking the first holiday season for her family back at the executive residence. The theme, “Home Is Where the Heart Is,” reflects what the White House describes as the enduring American spirit of generosity, patriotism, and gratitude.
The decorations also acknowledge the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence, highlighting the nation’s founding in 1776. This milestone will be celebrated throughout 2026, adding a patriotic aspect to this year’s holiday display.
Volunteer decorators from across the country 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 personally selected each detail of the decor, starting the planning months in advance.
This year’s display is notably different due to ongoing construction. President Donald Trump demolished the East Wing in October to make space for a large ballroom he has long desired. The building and its connecting colonnade to the White House were removed as part of this project, changing the layout and visitor experience.
The official White House Christmas tree, traditionally placed in the Blue Room, holds special significance this year. The 18-foot concolor fir from Korson’s Tree Farms in Sidney, Michigan, will also honor Gold Star families who lost members during active-duty military service. This tribute was previously displayed in the East Wing but has been moved to the Blue Room tree due to the demolition.
The Blue Room tree is adorned with gold stars honoring these military families, along with ornaments featuring each state and territory’s official bird and flower. This traditional acknowledgment of all 50 states and U.S. territories remains central to White House holiday celebrations.
The East Room features patriotic red, white, and blue decor with national symbols, including golden eagle tree toppers, to highlight the upcoming America250 national celebration. Trees are also decorated with stars, roses, and oak leaves, creating a distinctly American aesthetic.
The Green Room offers a playful touch with large portraits of the first and current presidents, George Washington and Donald Trump, respectively, each made from more than 6,000 Lego pieces. This room celebrates family fun and childhood entertainment, reflecting the joy of the holiday season.
The Red Room stands out visually, decorated with thousands of blue butterflies on its tree, wreaths, and throughout the space. More than 10,000 butterflies fill the room in a celebration of young people. The decor honors Melania Trump’s Fostering the Future initiative, part of her Be Best program focused on children and dedicated to supporting individuals who have experienced foster care. The butterflies symbolize transformation and hope for children navigating the foster care system.
A favorite, the gingerbread White House returns to the State Dining Room, showcasing the mansion’s South Portico. The intricate replica required 120 pounds of gingerbread, 100 pounds of pastillage, and five pounds of royal icing for construction.
Public tours, previously suspended due to East Wing construction, resumed on December 2. However, visitors will experience significant changes. The tour route is now limited to the State Floor, which includes the East Room and the Green, Blue, and Red Rooms, as well as the State Dining Room.
Visitors will now enter through the North Portico doors, rather than the traditional East Wing entrance.
A White House statement explained that Christmas is a time to celebrate what makes the United States exceptional and that, while every home has its own traditions, shared values unite Americans. It continues that the heart of America is strong and that “Home Is Where The Heart Is.”
The White House expects tens of thousands of visitors for holiday tours, receptions, and parties before Christmas.