The very festive Christmas decor was revealed on Melania Trump’s Twitter, where the first lady showed off the patriotic decorations - complete with lots of sparkling trees, golden bald eagles and notable US monuments.
However, some questioned the first lady's decision to deck the halls with blood-red Christmas trees.
Making up the majority of the decor, decorated trees appear in the Green Room, where a tree covered with fruits and vegetables is meant to represent the country’s “bounty and harvest,” according to the White House, and in the Vermeil Room and library.
There is also a Gold Star Family tree, which honours troops and their families, and, in the Blue Room, the official hand-picked 18-foot White House Christmas tree decorated in blue velvet ribbon embroidered in gold with each state and territory.
But it is the red trees, adorned with 14,000 red ornaments meant to represent the stripes found on the presidential seal signifying valour and bravery, according to the White House, that have captured the most attention.
Although red decor is common for Christmas, many Americans have suggested alternative symbolism.
“So Melania decorated the White House for Christmas - with blood red trees right out of The Shining: Holiday Version,” one person tweeted.
Another suggested a more sinister meaning - “Oh sure, the ‘Hell on Earth Christmas Trees’ aren’t very subtle Melania,” they wrote on Twitter.
Others juxtaposed this year’s “blood-like” decor to last year’s “Time-Honoured Traditions” theme, which featured all-white trees described as a “dystopian nightmare.”
In addition to patriotism and the recognition of America’s “unique heritage,” the White House’s 2018 Christmas decorations include personal details - such as an ornament with the slogan “Be Best,” a nod to the first lady’s youth campaign, and a soccer ball.
“This is a joyous time of year when we decorate the White House for the Christmas season,” the first lady said in a statement. “Our theme honours the heart and spirit of the American people.
“Thank you to the many volunteers and staff who worked hard to decorate the halls of the People’s House in Christmas cheer. On behalf of my family, we wish everyone a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year.”
The Independent
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