Throughout the years, White House Christmases have been grand. But when did this tradition really start, and who started it? The answer is this: the first ladies of the past. Though often overlooked, the contributions of first ladies are no less important than those of our presidents. Early on, presidents and their first ladies celebrated Christmas in their own ways.
The first lady who outshone the rest with her holiday decorations was Jackie Kennedy. In 1961, she decorated the White House Christmas tree with Nutcracker ornaments, unknowingly creating a tradition that first ladies would continue to uphold for years. Jaqueline Kennedy first introduced the concept of themed Christmas trees in the blue room with her “Nutcracker Suite”, inspired by Traikosky’s ballet and music score. Her iconic decorations included toys, birds, angels, and characters from the ballet to embody her theme.
Lady Nancy Reagan continued the tradition in 1981 by creating an official White House Gingerbread House, a custom that was recreated multiple times after by other first ladies, featuring increasingly elaborate designs. During her husband’s presidency, Nancy emphasized traditional and elegant decor that embodied the history of the White House.
In 1995, Hillary Clinton’s theme was based on a classic poem, “Twas the Night Before Christmas”. Many of her decorations featured scenes from the story, including stockings hung on the chimney, and reindeer.
Following the events of 9/11 in 2001, Laura Bush’s theme, “Home for the Holidays”, focused on unity and patriotism. Her decorations included a total of 49 Christmas trees throughout the White House, all representing community and resilience.
Michelle Obama’s 2010 theme, “Simple Gifts”, served as appreciation for service members. Her “Military Appreciation Tree” was adorned with handmade ornaments from military families, symbolizing gratitude.
Melania Trump’s first White House Christmas in 2017, “Time-Honored Traditions”, celebrated American heritage with decorations that featured the seal of every US state and territory. Her tree in the Blue Room was surrounded by symbolic ornaments displaying national traditions.
Jill Biden’s 2021 theme, “Gifts from the Heart”, highlighted core American values of faith, family, and service. Each room in the White House showcased a different “gift”, including a tree and different handcrafted ornaments representing harmony and hope.
Each first lady’s contribution reflects cultural, historical, and personal preferences during her time, turning White House Christmas decorations into a blend of tradition, art, and national symbolism.
Though their choices in decor for Christmas in the White House is one of the most famous contributions first ladies make, in reality, their role extends far beyond garlands and Christmas trees. Without a formal set of guidelines or requirements, these women are left to their own devices to decide what being a first lady means to them. Notably, Jackie Kennedy was most known for her fashion style, but she was a very influential first lady in many more ways than just her outfits. During her time as first lady, she focused on protecting the White House, and she formed The White House Historical Association, working to protect the historical integrity of not only this building but many others. Not only did she preserve the building, but she made it more accessible to all, turning the White House into a museum, as well as offering tours to the public. Overall, she changed what it meant to be a first lady and set a path for the first ladies of the future to have a larger role in their government.
