The White House has unveiled its 2025 Christmas decorations, with First Lady Melania Trump presenting a festive scheme that heavily emphasises patriotic themes aligned with President Donald Trump's 'America First' agenda. The official theme, 'Home Is Where The Heart Is', also pays homage to the upcoming 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence.
A Patriotic Theme and Presidential Portraits
This year's holiday decor is explicitly tied to the America250 celebrations marking the nation's semiquincentennial in 2026. President Trump has suggested it is fate that the year-long commemorations will occur during his potential second term. The most striking personal touch is a portrait of the current president crafted entirely from Lego bricks, positioned just feet away from a similar construction of first US President George Washington.
The East Room, currently the White House's largest room, served as the focal point for the America250 motif. It was adorned with red, white, and blue trees and symbols of American patriotism, including large custom eagle tree toppers. An America250 spokesperson stated they were 'deeply honoured' to be represented in the holiday celebration, calling it a moment to 'reflect on what connects us as Americans.'
Butterflies, Wreaths, and a Scaled-Back Tour
Among the many decorative elements, more than 10,000 blue butterflies were featured throughout the residence, particularly in a dedicated 'Be Best' room, to celebrate the 'youth who represent our Nation's bright future.' The overall display included 75 wreaths and 51 Christmas trees scattered across the historic building.
However, the traditional public viewing route was notably less expansive than in previous years. This reduction is due to ongoing construction in the East Wing, where President Trump is building a new grand ballroom. Staff workspaces have been relocated to the lower level, and the tour route now begins in the East Room, where construction is visible just beyond a wall.
Room-by-Room Festive Highlights
The tour expanded into the Green Room, which housed retro toys and the distinctive Lego portraits. The heart of the White House, the Blue Room, displayed the official Christmas tree, adorned with 3-D printed ornaments of all 50 states and their respective state birds.
In the Red Room, a tree featured the First Lady's 'Be Best' slogan alongside more blue butterflies on wreaths and garlands. The State Dining Room showcased the annual White House Gingerbread House, which this year offered a rare edible glimpse into the Yellow Oval Room of the president's private residence. The tour concluded in the Grand Foyer with the President's Marine Band playing Christmas tunes, including the complete soundtrack from *The Nutcracker*.
While the interiors championed the new patriotic theme, the exterior of the White House maintained tradition, with red-bow-laden wreaths adorning every window. The decorations aimed to highlight 'America, Our Home' as a reminder that 'the heart of America is strong.'
