First Lady Melania Trump unveiled the White House Christmas decorations on Monday, December 1, 2025, marking her family’s first holiday season back at the executive mansion. 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 incorporate nods to the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence, celebrating the nation’s founding in 1776. This milestone will be observed throughout 2026, making the holiday display particularly patriotic this year.
Volunteer decorators from across the country helped transform the White House using 75 wreaths, 51 Christmas trees, over 700 feet of garland, and more than 10,000 butterflies. The first lady personally selected every detail of the decor, with planning having begun months in advance.
This year’s display differs significantly from previous years due to ongoing construction. President Donald Trump demolished the East Wing in October to make way for a large ballroom he has long desired. The building and its connecting colonnade to the White House were removed as part of this ambitious project, fundamentally changing the layout and visitor experience.
The official White House Christmas tree, traditionally displayed in the Blue Room, takes on 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 featured in the East Wing, where it greeted visitors upon entry, but the demolition required the memorial to be incorporated into the main Blue Room tree instead.
The Blue Room tree is decorated with gold stars honoring these military families, along with ornaments showcasing the official bird and flower of each state and territory. This traditional recognition of all 50 states and U.S. territories remains a centerpiece of 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 coming America250 national celebration. Trees are also adorned 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 created from more than 6,000 Lego pieces. This room celebrates family fun and childhood entertainment, reflecting the joy of the holiday season.
Perhaps the most visually striking space is the Red Room, 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, a component of her Be Best program centered 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 perennial 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 to construct.
Public tours, which had been suspended for months due to the East Wing construction, resumed on Tuesday, December 2. However, visitors will encounter a significantly altered experience. The tour route is now limited to the State Floor only, which includes the East Room and the Green, Blue, and Red Rooms, along with 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.
