The White House, the official residence and principal workplace of the President of the United States, is a symbol of American history and democracy. During the holiday season, the White House is transformed into a winter wonderland, complete with a majestic Christmas tree that stands tall in the Blue Room. But have you ever wondered who provides this iconic tree? In this article, we will delve into the history and tradition of the White House Christmas tree and explore the organizations and individuals responsible for selecting and donating this beloved symbol of the holiday season.
Introduction to the White House Christmas Tree Tradition
The tradition of having a Christmas tree in the White House dates back to 1889, when President Benjamin Harrison decorated the first tree with candles, ornaments, and popcorn strings. Since then, the White House Christmas tree has become an integral part of the holiday season, with each administration adding its own unique touch to the decorations and festivities. The tree is typically displayed in the Blue Room, which is one of the most historic and iconic rooms in the White House.
The Selection Process
So, who provides the Christmas tree for the White House? The answer lies in a rigorous selection process that involves several organizations and individuals. Each year, the National Christmas Tree Association (NCTA) selects a grower to donate a tree to the White House. The NCTA is a trade association that represents the Christmas tree industry, and its members are responsible for growing and harvesting Christmas trees across the United States. The selection process typically begins several years in advance, as the NCTA works with its members to identify a tree that meets the White House’s specific requirements.
Requirements for the White House Christmas Tree
The White House has a set of strict requirements for its Christmas tree, which includes the type of tree, its size, and its appearance. The tree must be a Fraser Fir or a Douglas Fir, which are both popular species known for their full, dense branches and rich, green color. The tree must also be between 18 and 19 feet tall, which is slightly taller than the average ceiling height in the Blue Room. In addition, the tree must have a perfect shape, with no bare spots or irregularities.
The National Christmas Tree Association: A Partner in the Tradition
The National Christmas Tree Association plays a crucial role in the selection and donation of the White House Christmas tree. The NCTA was established in 1955 and has been responsible for providing the White House with its Christmas tree every year since 1966. The association works closely with its members to identify a tree that meets the White House’s requirements and donates the tree to the White House as a gift.
The Winning Grower
Each year, the NCTA selects a winning grower to donate the White House Christmas tree. The winning grower is typically announced in the spring, and the tree is harvested in late October or early November. The winning grower is responsible for transporting the tree to the White House, where it is decorated and displayed during the holiday season.
Past Winners
Some past winners of the White House Christmas tree include the Shealer’s Tree Farm in Auburn, Pennsylvania, which donated the tree in 2010, and the Larsons’ Tree Farm in Colfax, Wisconsin, which donated the tree in 2015. These winners are selected based on the quality of their trees, as well as their commitment to the Christmas tree industry.
The Decorating Process
Once the tree is delivered to the White House, it is decorated by a team of volunteers and staff, led by the First Lady. The decorating process typically begins in late November and takes several days to complete. The tree is decorated with a theme that reflects the current administration’s interests and values, as well as ornaments and decorations that have been donated by artists, designers, and citizens from across the United States.
A Symbol of Unity and Celebration
The White House Christmas tree is a symbol of unity and celebration, bringing together Americans from all walks of life during the holiday season. The tree is typically lit during a ceremony in early December, which is attended by the President, the First Lady, and other dignitaries. The ceremony marks the beginning of the holiday season at the White House and is broadcast live on television and social media.
A Visit to the White House
Visitors to the White House during the holiday season can view the Christmas tree in the Blue Room, as well as other decorations and exhibits throughout the mansion. The White House is open to the public for tours, and visitors can also attend special events and ceremonies, including the annual Christmas tree lighting ceremony.
In conclusion, the White House Christmas tree is a beloved tradition that is made possible by the National Christmas Tree Association and its members. Each year, a winning grower is selected to donate a tree to the White House, which is then decorated and displayed during the holiday season. The tree is a symbol of unity and celebration, bringing together Americans from all walks of life during the holiday season. Whether you are a history buff, a Christmas enthusiast, or simply a visitor to the White House, the Christmas tree is a must-see attraction that is sure to delight and inspire.
For those interested in learning more about the White House Christmas tree and the National Christmas Tree Association, here is a list of resources:
- National Christmas Tree Association: www.realchristmastrees.org
- White House: www.whitehouse.gov
By exploring these resources and learning more about the White House Christmas tree, you can gain a deeper appreciation for this beloved tradition and the organizations and individuals who make it possible.
What is the tradition of providing a Christmas tree to the White House?
The tradition of providing a Christmas tree to the White House is a long-standing one, dating back to 1889 when President Benjamin Harrison decorated the first White House Christmas tree. Since then, a Christmas tree has been a part of the White House holiday decorations every year. The tree is typically a large, ornately decorated tree that is placed in the Blue Room of the White House, where it serves as a centerpiece for the holiday season. Over the years, the tradition has evolved to include a variety of themes, decorations, and events surrounding the tree.
The Christmas tree is usually donated by the National Christmas Tree Association, a trade association that represents the Christmas tree industry. The association selects a tree from a member farm, and it is then harvested and transported to the White House, where it is decorated by the First Lady and a team of volunteers. The tree is typically decorated with a variety of ornaments, lights, and other decorations, and it is often themed around a particular holiday theme or motif. The unveiling of the White House Christmas tree is a popular event, and it is often attended by the media, politicians, and other dignitaries.
Who selects the Christmas tree that is displayed in the White House?
The selection of the Christmas tree that is displayed in the White House is a careful process that involves the National Christmas Tree Association and the White House staff. The National Christmas Tree Association selects a tree from a member farm, based on a variety of factors such as the tree’s size, shape, and color. The association looks for a tree that is visually appealing and that will fit well in the Blue Room of the White House. Once a tree has been selected, it is harvested and transported to the White House, where it is inspected and prepared for decorating.
The White House staff, led by the First Lady, plays a significant role in the selection and decoration of the Christmas tree. The First Lady typically chooses a theme for the tree, and selects the ornaments, lights, and other decorations that will be used to decorate the tree. The White House staff also works with the National Christmas Tree Association to ensure that the tree is properly installed and maintained throughout the holiday season. The result is a beautifully decorated tree that is a beloved part of the White House holiday tradition.
How is the Christmas tree transported to the White House?
The transportation of the Christmas tree to the White House is a logistical challenge that requires careful planning and execution. The tree is typically harvested from a Christmas tree farm in late November or early December, and it is then transported to the White House by truck. The tree is carefully wrapped and secured to prevent damage during transport, and it is often accompanied by a team of handlers who are responsible for ensuring its safe arrival at the White House. The tree is typically unloaded at the White House and then installed in the Blue Room, where it is decorated and prepared for display.
The transportation of the Christmas tree is often a complex process that involves multiple stakeholders, including the National Christmas Tree Association, the White House staff, and the tree farm that donated the tree. The tree must be handled with care to prevent damage, and it must be transported in a way that ensures its safe arrival at the White House. Once the tree arrives at the White House, it is installed and decorated, and it becomes a beloved part of the holiday tradition. The tree is typically on display throughout the holiday season, and it is enjoyed by thousands of visitors who come to the White House to see the holiday decorations.
What is the typical size of the White House Christmas tree?
The typical size of the White House Christmas tree can vary from year to year, but it is usually a large tree that stands between 18 and 20 feet tall. The tree is typically a fir or spruce tree, and it is selected for its full, dense branches and its vibrant green color. The tree is often so large that it must be installed in the Blue Room using a hydraulic lift, and it is typically decorated with thousands of lights, ornaments, and other decorations. The size of the tree is an important consideration, as it must be large enough to make a dramatic impact in the Blue Room, but not so large that it overwhelms the space.
The size of the White House Christmas tree is often determined by the theme and decorations that the First Lady has chosen for the holiday season. For example, if the theme is a traditional holiday theme, a larger tree may be chosen to accommodate a greater number of ornaments and decorations. On the other hand, if the theme is a more minimalist or modern theme, a smaller tree may be chosen to create a more subtle and understated look. Regardless of its size, the White House Christmas tree is always a stunning and impressive sight, and it is a beloved part of the holiday tradition.
How many ornaments are used to decorate the White House Christmas tree?
The number of ornaments used to decorate the White House Christmas tree can vary from year to year, but it is typically in the thousands. The ornaments are usually designed and created specifically for the White House, and they may include a variety of themes and motifs, such as snowflakes, stars, and holiday characters. The ornaments are often handmade or customized, and they may be created by artists, craftsmen, and other designers from around the country. The First Lady typically selects the ornaments and other decorations for the tree, and she works with a team of volunteers and designers to create a unique and beautiful display.
The ornaments used to decorate the White House Christmas tree are often significant and meaningful, as they may be designed to reflect a particular theme or motif. For example, if the theme is a patriotic theme, the ornaments may include American flags, eagles, and other symbols of American history and culture. The ornaments may also be designed to reflect the First Lady’s personal interests and hobbies, or to honor a particular person or event. Regardless of their design or theme, the ornaments used to decorate the White House Christmas tree are always beautiful and significant, and they add to the magic and wonder of the holiday season.
Can the public visit the White House to see the Christmas tree?
Yes, the public can visit the White House to see the Christmas tree, but it requires some planning and advance notice. The White House offers public tours of the holiday decorations, including the Christmas tree, during the holiday season. The tours are typically available from late November to late December, and they must be requested through a member of Congress. The tours are free, but they are often in high demand, and it may be necessary to request a tour well in advance to ensure availability. Visitors who take the tour will have the opportunity to see the Christmas tree, as well as other holiday decorations and exhibits throughout the White House.
The public tours of the White House holiday decorations are a popular event, and they offer a unique and special opportunity to see the Christmas tree and other decorations up close. The tours are typically led by a member of the White House staff, and they provide a wealth of information and insight into the history and significance of the holiday decorations. Visitors who take the tour will also have the opportunity to see other parts of the White House, including the State Rooms and the East Wing. The tours are a wonderful way to experience the magic and wonder of the holiday season, and they are a must-see for anyone who loves the White House and its traditions.
How long does it take to decorate the White House Christmas tree?
The time it takes to decorate the White House Christmas tree can vary from year to year, but it typically requires several days to a week to complete. The decorating process begins with the installation of the tree in the Blue Room, which is typically done by a team of handlers and decorators. Once the tree is in place, a team of volunteers and decorators, led by the First Lady, begins the process of decorating the tree with thousands of lights, ornaments, and other decorations. The decorating process is often a complex and time-consuming one, as it requires a great deal of planning, creativity, and attention to detail.
The decorating of the White House Christmas tree is a labor of love that requires a great deal of time, effort, and dedication. The team of decorators and volunteers who work on the tree are often highly skilled and experienced, and they take great pride in their work. The result is a beautifully decorated tree that is a joy to behold, and that reflects the spirit and magic of the holiday season. The tree is typically decorated in late November or early December, and it remains on display throughout the holiday season. The decorating of the tree is a beloved part of the White House holiday tradition, and it is a highlight of the holiday season for thousands of visitors who come to the White House to see the tree and other decorations.