U.S. News

White House unveils 'Spirit of America' Christmas theme

By Don Jacobson   |   Dec. 2, 2019 at 11:51 AM
The official White House Christmas tree, viewed through decorations around the Grand Foyer. The foyer was decked with 22 evergreens, 14 golden magnolia topiaries and 10 floral urns, all dusted with snow. Photo by Kevin Dietsch/UPI The official tree is displayed in the Blue Room. At over 18 feet high, the tree is decorated with handmade paper flowers for each state and territory. Photo by Kevin Dietsch/UPI Patriotic Christmas ornaments adorn the East Room. First lady Melania Trump tweeted, "I am delighted to share this beautiful exhibit of patriotism for all to see, and excited for everyone to experience the beauty of the #Christmas season!" Photo by Kevin Dietsch/UPI The Red Room is decorated with a "game room" theme using playing cards and pieces of board games. Photo by Kevin Dietsch/UPI The East Colonnade is decorated with glass panels aglow with tree and snow designs leading to a decorated tree. Photo by Kevin Dietsch/UPI Stars of Bethlehem hang from the ceiling of the East Colonnade. Guests will be able to see the decorations during open houses, receptions and tours throughout December. Photo by Kevin Dietsch/UPI The White House gingerbread house in the State Dining Room has miniature wreaths in the windows surrounded by notable national landmarks, including the Gateway Arch, Mount Rushmore and the Golden Gate Bridge. Photo by Kevin Dietsch/UPI The Cross Hall of the White House is decorated with trees of gold and silver, lined with fake snow. Photo by Kevin Dietsch/UPI The Green Room features classic decorations and a White House Advent Calendar hanging in the windows. Photo by Kevin Dietsch/UPI Paper decorations in the Green Room. Photo by Kevin Dietsch/UPI The East Room. Photo by Kevin Dietsch/UPI Decorations in the East Room feature trees and garlands with warm lights. Photo by Kevin Dietsch/UPI A military band plays during a media preview in the Grand Foyer. Photo by Kevin Dietsch/UPI More trees adorn the library. Photo by Kevin Dietsch/UPI The Presidential Seal is surrounded by Christmas decorations in the Grand Foyer. Photo by Kevin Dietsch/UPI

Dec. 2 (UPI) -- Striking a patriotic theme, first lady Melania Trump unveiled on Monday this year's White House Christmas decorations -- which are noted by ornamental golden stars, patriotic ribbons and gilded eagles.

The official 2019 theme is "The Spirit of America," which she said is meant as "a tribute to the traditions, customs, and history that make our nation great."

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"This Christmas season I want to honor those who have shaped our country and made it the place we are proud to call home, and I am excited to announce our White House holiday theme, 'The Spirit of America'" the first lady said in a statement. "When I travel the country, I am inspired by the hard working people and families that I meet. No matter which state they call home, many Americans share a strong set of values and deep appreciation for the traditions and history of our great nation."

In a White House video posted online, Trump is seen walking past colorful trees bedecked with sparkling lights, floral arrangements, games and other ornamental varieties.

Among the more patriotic elements of the display, the East Room's Gold Star Family Tree is festooned with golden stars and patriotic ribbons; the American flag figures prominently in the first family's annual ornament and Christmas card in the East Garden Room; and the State Dining Room features a gingerbread house depicting U.S. landmarks such as Mount Rushmore and the Alamo.

The display concludes with a winter garden in the Grand Foyer and Cross Hall -- which is filled with 22 evergreens, 14 golden magnolia topiaries and 10 floral urns.