Christmas is coming! First Lady opens up applications for White House holiday volunteering
Mrs. Trump opened applications on Monday for volunteers seeking to assist in decorating the White House or perform in December for the Christmas season
by Summer Lane | August 4, 2025
First Lady Melania Trump has officially opened applications for White House decorating and performing this coming holiday season, promising to continue a “cherished tradition” of working alongside American volunteers to ready the People’s House for the Christmas celebration.
“Americans from every U.S. state and territory are invited to apply for the opportunity to assist with decorating at the White House or showcase their talents as a performer at the holiday open houses,” the First Lady’s office announced in an official statement.
Applications opened on Monday and must be submitted by September 5.
Performers and musical groups are welcome to apply to perform at the White House Christmas open houses during the month of December. According to the First Lady’s office, this includes choirs, holiday-themed entertainers, and school bands.
During President Donald Trump’s first term in the White House, Mrs. Trump transformed the People’s House into a twinkling castle of holiday décor and spirit. Many Americans are eager to see how the First Lady plans to deck the halls at the White House in 2025.
According to the White House Historical Association, the official observance of Christmas from the People’s House did not begin until after the 20th century:
“First families decorated the house modestly with greens and privately celebrated the Yuletide with family and friends. The first White House Christmas tree, decorated with candles and toys, was placed in the second floor oval room, then used as a library and family parlor, in 1889 for President Benjamin Harrison and his family.”
Electric Christmas lights were introduced to the White House in 1894, per the association, and it was in 1912 that a Christmas tree was officially decorated by the children of then-President William H. Taft.
Volunteers this year who are selected to help decorate the White House and perform in D.C. will be notified by October 13, and will be responsible for their own travel expenses.
Photo: Screenshot, The White House, Archived
