The White House is preparing for a week steeped in tradition as Thanksgiving approaches. A beloved, and often whimsical, ceremony is set to unfold – the annual turkey pardon.
President and First Lady Trump will preside over the event in the Rose Garden, offering a reprieve to two fortunate turkeys just days before the national feast. It’s a lighthearted moment, a break from the weight of the office, and a uniquely American spectacle.
This year, the First Lady invited the public to participate in a charming detail: naming the pardoned birds. A selection of potential names was presented, allowing citizens a small piece of the White House experience.
The tradition of sending turkeys to the White House isn’t new. Over the years, birds have journeyed from farms across the nation – Minnesota, North Carolina, Indiana, and many others – each hoping for a presidential pardon.
Beyond the turkey pardon, another significant tradition is underway: the arrival of the official White House Christmas tree. This marks the official start of the holiday season at 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue.
This year’s magnificent Fraser fir hails from Korson’s Tree Farms in Michigan, a family-owned business an hour northeast of Grand Rapids. Owners Rex and Jessica Korson will personally present the tree, a culmination of years of dedication.
The Korson family earned this honor through the National Christmas Tree Association’s annual contest, a prestigious competition that selects the farm responsible for providing the White House Christmas tree. They will also provide a smaller tree destined for the Oval Office.
The towering Fraser fir will take center stage in the Blue Room, becoming the glittering heart of the White House’s holiday decorations, a symbol of joy and tradition for the nation.
