UPDATE: White House tours are officially back starting Tuesday, just in time for the holiday season, following a three-month suspension due to the controversial demolition of the East Wing. Visitors can now experience a newly shortened tour that reflects significant changes amid ongoing public debate.
The East Wing demolition was part of President Trump’s ambitious plan to construct a $300 million ballroom, a project that has drawn widespread criticism. Polls indicate that a majority of Americans oppose the renovation, viewing it as a symbol of Trump’s contentious leadership style since returning to office.
As the holiday spirit fills the air, the newly truncated tour begins and ends at the North Portico. It includes stops in key rooms like the East Room, Blue Room, Green Room, Red Room, and State Dining Room. Visitors will no longer see the East Wing or basement rooms that were previously part of the route.
In a preview of the holiday decorations that were “personally selected by Melania Trump to honor the heart of America,” the White House has unveiled a stunning display featuring 75 wreaths, 51 Christmas trees, and over 2,800 gold stars. Decorators worked tirelessly to achieve this year’s theme, “Home Is Where The Heart Is,” despite the reduced space.
The centerpiece of the decorations is an impressive 18-foot Christmas tree in the Blue Room, adorned with gold stars and white globe ornaments representing all 56 U.S. states and territories. These unique ornaments were 3D printed, showcasing state birds and flowers, and were crafted by Gold Star families who lost loved ones in military service.
Nicholas Clemens, communications director for the first lady, emphasized the emotional significance of the decorations: “Home is made safe because of the Gold Star families who sacrificed for our country, wherever they might call home across the world.”
The Green Room features large Lego portraits of President George Washington and Trump, each made from 6,000 Lego bricks. The Red Room showcases over 10,000 blue butterflies that symbolize young people, including those who have experienced foster care, highlighting Trump’s initiatives such as “Be Best.”
The East Room is specially decorated to celebrate America’s upcoming 250th anniversary, featuring patriotic colors and symbols. A large curtain obscures what Trump has termed a “knock out wall,” which will lead to the future ballroom.
Visitors will also marvel at the gingerbread White House in the State Dining Room, crafted from 120 pounds of gingerbread dough and 100 pounds of pastillage dough, showcasing the building from the South Lawn perspective. The design features a giant American flag made of sugar, reflecting recent renovations including the installation of new flag poles.
Clemens noted, “You’ll be able to peer in and see the current design of the … Yellow Oval as it currently is designed for the Trumps,” enhancing the visitor experience with real-time glimpses into the private residence.
As public interest soars, tour tickets can be requested through members of Congress, who receive an allotment for their constituents. The return of these tours, despite the ongoing renovations and controversies, underscores the White House’s commitment to connecting with the public during this festive season.
With the changes in place, the White House aims to provide a memorable holiday experience, even as the debate around the East Wing demolition continues. Visitors are encouraged to partake in the rich history and festive spirit as they explore the iconic residence, now transformed for the holidays.
