This year, the White House Christmas decorations reflect the theme “America the Beautiful. ” Throughout the building, ornaments representing various landmarks and natural wonders in the United States have been placed on in the trees and around the halls.
The aim is to spotlight the richness of our US culture, while honoring the beauty of the traditional Christmas décor. Additionally, the Blue Room Christmas tree is set to borrow inspiration from the magnificent national parks as a reminder of our nation’s diverse beauty.
As we look to a new decade, the White House decorations will serve as an homage to America’s natural splendor and will allow us to reflect on the common threads that bind us all together — no matter what state we call home.
How much are White House Christmas ornaments?
The cost of White House Christmas ornaments varies each year, but typically range in price from $22 to $26. In addition, a donation of $6 is requested with each ornament purchase to help sustain the White House Historical Association’s mission.
The White House Historical Association mission helps to “preserve, protect, and provide public access to the rich history of America’s Executive Mansion. ” Each year a new commemorative ornament is released, with designs inspired by the White House itself or its grounds.
Additionally, past designs of the White House Christmas ornaments are also available for purchase, with prices varying based on the individual year’s production type.
Who selects the White House ornament?
The White House Historical Association (WHHA) selects the official White House ornament every year. Founded in 1961, the WHHA is dedicated to preserving and sharing the history of the White House and educating the public about America’s most famous residence.
Each year, the WHHA works with the White House curator and the Office of the First Lady of the United States to design a unique, limited-edition ornament. The ornament features rendered artwork that symbolizes the Presidency and celebrates important moments in American history.
Once selected, the design is cast into metal, finished in 24-karat gold and then velvet-bagged with a pamphlet explaining its historical significance. Each ornament is comprised of more than 65 individual pieces and made of the finest materials.
The White House ornament is sold to the public each holiday season as a way to help support the WHHA’s mission.
How long have White House ornaments been made?
White House Christmas ornaments have been made since 1981 when the White House Historical Association first established their ornament program. The first White House ornament was a brass eagle, produced by a New Jersey based company, Designs of the Times.
Since then, each ornament has featured a historical or architectural feature of the White House in a unique design, and is made of a combination of metals and glass. Every year, the ornament is presented at a special ceremony at the White House with a special guest, often a living figure associated with the year’s ornament.
Over time, the ornaments have become highly coveted collectables. While the decorations around the White House during Christmas may have changed through the years, the tradition of the White House ornament program has been an enduring one that still continues today.
How old is the current White House?
The White House, the official residence of the President of the United States, is over 200 years old. Construction began on the White House in 1792, when President George Washington and First Lady Martha Washington laid the cornerstone.
It was originally named the “Presidential Mansion” and was first used as the primary residence for President John Adams in 1800. Over the years, the White House has been subject to multiple renovations and additions, including a major reconstruction from 1949-1952.
The current White House, as it stands today, has been home to every President since John Adams, spanning a total of 42 administrations.
What Christmas ornaments are valuable?
Valuable Christmas ornaments are typically antiques or limited-edition pieces. The value of a particular Christmas ornament is often dependent on the age, condition, maker, rarity, and type. If the ornament is antique or limited-edition, its value may be much higher than other ornaments.
A few valuable Christmas ornaments include vintage and antique glass ornaments, mouth-blown and hand-painted ornaments, limited-edition ornament sets, and German beehive ornaments. Many vintage ornaments, such as European antique glass ornaments, can be very valuable and highly sought after pieces.
Some European glass ornaments from the late 19th and early 20th centuries can fetch high prices due to their craftsmanship, age, and condition. Other vintage ornaments, like beehive ornaments from Germany, can be valuable collector’s items due to their scarcity and age.
Limited-edition ornament sets and mouth-blown, hand-painted ornaments can also be valuable, as the availability of these pieces often decreases over time and their condition plays a key factor in the value.
Are old Xmas ornaments worth anything?
That depends on what kind of Christmas ornaments you have. Some ornaments can be quite valuable if they are antique or vintage and in good condition. Popular types of ornaments that can be valuable include glass and blown glass ornaments, ornaments with precious materials like porcelain, silver or gold, or ornaments featuring popular characters.
One of the best ways to determine how much an ornament may be worth is to research similar items that have recently sold on auction or resale websites. Additionally, if it is an ornament from a special collection or event, it may have more value.
Some companies that create vintage collections even determine the value for a specific piece. Ultimately, the age, condition, and rarity of such an ornament will determine its worth.
How do you pick Christmas ornaments?
When it comes to selecting Christmas ornaments, there are many factors to keep in mind. First, consider the overall theme and color scheme of your Christmas tree. Select decorations that will complement this look in terms of color and style.
If you are searching for new ornaments, it is important to consider your space and budget when making your choices. Stick to your budget limits and pick decorations that will fit within the dimensions of your Christmas tree.
Antique ornaments are highly coveted, so if you are lucky enough to own any or find them while shopping, they can add an extra special touch to your tree. If you are looking to buy new ornaments, there are a variety of choices available, from classic glass ornaments in multiple colors to homemade items like ornaments made of ribbon, felt, and paper.
Don’t forget to select a few specialty tribute ornaments, like a personalized one for each member in your family, to make your tree special.
When it comes to hanging up your ornaments, take your time to properly place each one so that the tree looks symmetrical and balanced. No matter the size or color of the ornament, ensure that all of your decorations are evenly spaced and arranged.
Finally, it is important to remember that the ultimate goal is to have fun and enjoy the process of putting up your Christmas tree with decorations to reflect your individual taste.
How many ornaments do you put on a Christmas tree?
The amount of ornaments you put on a Christmas tree is completely up to personal preference. Some people like to go all out and hang numerous ornaments of all shapes and sizes, while others like to keep it simple with a few simple items.
Some popular ornament choices are Christmas balls, ribbons and bows, and lights. Whether you choose to use a few or many ornaments, it’s important to ensure that the ornaments you use are safely and securely attached to the branches of the tree, so that your tree is stable and safe for everyone.
If you are looking for a more traditional look, you can use garland, tinsels, and a tree topper. Alternatively, if you would like something dynamic, there are many different types of ornaments you can use to create a unique and fun tree.
Do you put ornaments or ribbon on tree first?
It is simply a matter of personal preference. If you choose to put ornaments on the tree first, you may want to start at the top and work your way down as this can be the easiest way to ensure the tree looks even.
However, if you would like to put the ornaments in a specific area first, this is also completely okay.
If you choose to use ribbon on your tree, you may want to start with the ribbons and weave them from the bottom of the tree to the top, since this is the more traditional way of decorating with ribbons.
Regardless of whether you start with ornaments or ribbons, ensuring each layer of decorations are even and symmetrical is important to help your tree look its best.
Who runs the White House Historical Association?
The White House Historical Association (WHHA) is a private, nonprofit organization that is responsible for increasing public support for the White House and its history. The Association was founded by First Lady Jacqueline Kennedy in June 1961, and incorporated as a non-profit educational foundation in December 1963.
It receives no funding from the federal government and is led by a Board of Directors, affiliated with an Advisory Committee and executive staff that includes the President, CEO, and Executive Director.
The Board of Directors includes prominent citizens, industry leaders, and members of the diplomatic corps. Its Advisory Committee is comprised of prominent historians, scholars, and leaders in the field of museum and archival management.
The Association’s staff is led by President Stewart McLaurin, who is responsible for the overall leadership and management of the organization. The staff develops and implements programs, projects, and activities related to White House history, and also works to ensure the White House maintains its historical integrity.
The WHHA works to preserve the legacy of both the White House and the Presidents and first families who have lived there, as well as provide educational and entertaining experiences for those visiting the White House.