Just a few days ago, Tatsha Robertson, our Editor-in-Chief, was invited to a Christmas brunch at White House where invitees were able to walk through the historic mansion. Biden himself showed up and gave an inspiring speech.
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The Christmas countdown is rapidly nearing the end and so is President Joe Biden’s time in the White House. And as Biden explained, the house will change with the next leader.
Every year, the White House does it big for the holiday season, and this time was no different. From the annual tree lighting ceremony to some new additions to the White House Christmas, entering the presidential building is nothing short of stepping into a Christmas wonderland! So, join us in taking a final look into Biden’s last Christmas in the White House.
Aside from being at the White House and seeing things for ourselves, we also got some extra help. The president spoke to Architectural Digest and even gave NPR an inside peek of all the festiveness, so you know The Root is here to spread the holiday cheer!
East Wing Entrance
If you are a guest, you enter the White House from the East Wing. This year the first thing you see before entering is this incredible rotating starlight. Tatsha Robertson, our Editor-in-chief, said the East Wing lobby is the start of the tour and it’s packed with gorgeous greenery and garlands.
Musical Show
The White House always does the holiday season big! But with this being Biden’s final Christmas in the White House, the president added a few extra special touches, like live music playing as you walk down this stunning hallway.
The Diplomatic Reception Room
Take a look at these festive trees right next to George Washington.
The China Room
Nothing says cozy Christmas more than the decorations in the china room.
Doves
This room is the Cross Hall. Just overhead is a cloud of “peace doves.”
Mini White House
Ah, the annual Gingerbread White House is always a treat to see. According to the White House, this year it was inspired by the décor theme of a “Season of Peace and Light.” The replica includes a scene of ice skaters on the South Lawn.
Trees for Days
Here’s a better look at all of those doves. You can’t see it, but if you stand by the truck, there’s a huge and beautiful portrait of President Obama that will be included in your photograph.
Gold Star Trees
According to the White House, “This year’s Gold Star Tree exhibit is constructed of six oversized and stacked stars, representing all six branches of the military. Names of fallen service members are written on gold star ornaments on the four accompanying Christmas trees. The Gold Star Trees honor the heroic men and women of our Nation’s military who have laid down their lives for our country, those who are Missing in Action, and the families who carry on their legacies. May God bless our troops and their families.”
Christmas With Abe
The ribbons below Abraham Lincoln read “let there be peace on earth.”
Greenery
With this grand chandelier matching perfectly up to the star of the Christmas tree, this greened-out room just screams Christmas.
The Oval Office
Most of the furniture in Biden’s Oval Office was picked out by his brother, he said.
Three Reeves
This desk has been used by every U.S. president since 1880 except three, according to the White House Historical Association.
Conference Room
As you can imagine, the White House has several meeting rooms.
Biden’s Personal Office
Many people don’t know this, but behind the Oval Office, there’s a private office just for the president. Biden said he uses this room to prepare for his speeches.
Back to the Oval Office
Biden picked out five of his personal favorite presidents to hang in the Oval Office.
Blue Carpet
Even though Biden’s brother chose most of the furniture in the office, the president said he’s the one that decided on this royal blue rug.
Frederick Douglass
The president has two drawings of abolitionist Frederick Douglass in the White House.
Joe and Jill on the Christmas Tree
The presidential couple are commemorated on one of the many trees up in the White House.
Art Gallery Dedicated to the Children
The president even has a wall full of art made by American children.
Biden and Family
Family is very important to the president. He even has a photo gallery of some of his favorite pics with his family.
Biden’s Childhood Home
Hanging up, Biden also keeps a drawing of his childhood home in Pennsylvania.
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