The iconic White House gingerbread house in the State Dining Room showcases the South Portico. The replica was built from 120 pounds of gingerbread. First Lady Melania Trump unveiled the White House holiday decorations on Dec. 1, 2025.

The White House's highly anticipated Christmas decorations, personally curated by first lady Melania Trump, were unveiled Monday, Dec. 1, aiming to embody the American spirit of generosity, patriotism and gratitude under the theme: "Home is Where the Heart Is."

The selection includes a mix of old and new favorites, including the iconic White House gingerbread house, which returned to the State Dining Room, showcasing the South Portico and offering a unique glimpse into the Yellow Oval Room in the private residence as it is furnished today. The replica was built from 120 pounds of edible gingerbread, though visitors cannot take a piece with them, Nick Clemens, a spokesperson for the first lady, told USA TODAY.

The official centerpiece Christmas tree, from Korson's Tree Farms in Sidney, Michigan, is placed in the Blue Room, while a total of 51 trees are scattered around the White House.

The tree, a concolor fir, honors Gold Star Families and features more than 2,800 gold stars, as well as ornaments depicting the official bird and flower from each U.S. state and territory, meant to celebrate the hope, courage and steadfast spirit that makes America home.

Melania's signature Christmas wreaths with red bows, meanwhile, hang on the windows of the White House. The 75 wreaths are also featured on this year’s Christmas card.

The Green Room has been decorated as a game room with dominoes and other entertainment, and features Lego portraits of George Washington and President Donald Trump.

The Red Room decor holds more than 10,000 butterflies to illustrate the transformations of youth who represent the nation's future. The butterflies are a nod to Melania's Fostering the Future, a BE BEST initiative to support young people who have experienced foster care.

Public tours arranged through congressional offices begin Dec. 2. The White House expects tens of thousands of people to view the decorations.

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Saman Shafiq is a trending news reporter for USA TODAY. Reach her at sshafiq@gannett.com and follow her on X and Instagram @saman_shafiq7.

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Christmas arrives at the White House. See photos, video of decor.

Reporting by Saman Shafiq and Bart Jansen, USA TODAY / USA TODAY

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