The First Lady unveils the White House Holiday Theme: We the People

Washington, DC – The First Lady of the United States, Dr. Jill Biden, unveiled the theme for the 2022 White House Holiday Season today: We the People.

“As our country gathers for the holidays, traditions may vary, but our shared American values – a belief in possibility, optimism, and unity – endure season after season,” President Joe Biden and Jill Biden wrote in a welcome letter in the White House holiday guide. “May the promise of We the People light our path forward into the New Year and bring us together always.”

The Red Room – Faith and Light (Apurva Minchekar)

Each room and design element throughout the White House holiday decor represents what brings the United States together during the holidays and throughout the year. The East Wing features Honor and Remembrance, the Library features Words and Stories, the Vermeil Room represents Kindness and Gratitude, and the China room represents Food and Traditions.

East Wing – Honor & Remembrance (Apurva Minchekar)

Approximately 14,865 feet of ribbon, over 300 candles, over 120,000 ornaments, and over 1600 bells were used to decorate the White House. There are 77 Christmas trees throughout the White House, with 83,615 holiday lights.

State Dining Room – We the Children. Hanging from the fireplace mantel are the traditional Biden family stockings for Santa to fill on Christmas Eve, always with an orange in the toe (a tradition from the First Lady’s grandmother). – (Apurva Minchekar)

The Gingerbread White House creation includes 20 sheets of sugar cookie dough, 30 sheets of gingerbread dough, 100 pounds of pastillage, 30 pounds of chocolate, and 40 pounds of royal icing.

State Dining Room – Gingerbread House (Apurva Minchekar)

The team of 150 dedicated volunteers from across the country worked on decorating the White House and beautifully captured the theme of the year. The White House expects to welcome approximately 50,000 visitors during the holiday season.