Melania Trump sets date for White House Easter egg roll
Former First Lady Melania Trump prepares to welcome families back to a cherished White House tradition this spring.
According to The Christian Post, the White House Easter Egg Roll, a longstanding celebration dating back to the 19th century, will take place on April 21 as part of President Donald Trump's second term administration.
The event, scheduled for the South Lawn, will be open to families with children aged 13 and younger through a free ticket lottery system.
Opening on Tuesday and closing on March 10, the lottery results will be announced on March 18, giving selected families the opportunity to participate in this historic springtime celebration.
How families can secure Easter egg roll tickets
Interested families must create an account on Recreation.gov to participate in the lottery system.
Applications require at least one child and one adult, with a maximum allowance of six tickets total, including no more than two adults per submission. The registration process involves selecting preferred time slots and specifying the exact number of attendees.
Prospective volunteers can also contribute to the festivities by submitting applications through the online platform. The White House aims to create an inclusive environment where community members can actively participate in various roles supporting the event's success.
Event organizers have planned numerous activities to engage visitors throughout the day. Children and families can look forward to live entertainment, storytelling sessions, arts and crafts stations, and appearances by costumed characters alongside the traditional Easter egg roll and hunt.
Historical significance of White House Easter tradition
The Easter egg roll's origins trace back to a remarkable moment in American history when children advocated for their right to access Capitol Grounds. Their successful petition to President Rutherford B. Hayes resulted in the establishment of this beloved annual celebration.
During President Trump's first term, Melania Trump hosted the event multiple years in succession, maintaining its status as a treasured White House tradition. However, the celebration faced a temporary hiatus in 2020 and 2021 due to COVID-19 pandemic restrictions and public health concerns.
The egg's symbolic importance during Easter celebrations connects deeply with Christian theology, representing new life and resurrection. This symbolism aligns with the Christian belief in Jesus Christ's resurrection on Easter Sunday, marking His victory over death and sin.
Previous Easter controversy under Biden administration
Last year's Easter observance sparked significant debate when President Joe Biden issued a proclamation designating Easter Sunday as Transgender Day of Visibility."
This decision drew criticism from Christian leaders and conservative politicians who viewed it as disrespectful to one of Christianity's holiest celebrations.
Biden's administration defended their position by explaining that the two observances coincidentally fell on the same date. However, observers noted that Biden's Easter recognition received notably less attention in his official statements compared to the transgender visibility proclamation.
The Trump campaign, through spokesperson Karoline Leavitt, expressed strong disapproval of Biden's decision. Leavitt stated:
We call on Joe Biden's failing campaign and White House to issue an apology to the millions of Catholics and Christians across America who believe tomorrow is for one celebration only — the resurrection of Jesus Christ
Return to traditional White House Easter celebration
Melania Trump's announcement marks a significant return to focusing on traditional Easter celebrations at the White House. The upcoming event promises to deliver a day filled with family-oriented activities and community engagement, continuing a cherished American tradition that spans over a century.
The 2025 White House Easter Egg Roll represents both a continuation of historical custom and a fresh start under the second Trump administration.
As April 21 approaches, families across the nation prepare to participate in this springtime celebration that has become an integral part of American cultural heritage, bringing communities together for a day of outdoor entertainment and family bonding.