For Immediate Release
Office of the First Lady
November 30, 2006

White House 2006 Holiday Theme Is "Deck the Halls and Welcome All"

      Holidays at the White House 2006

"Deck the Halls and Welcome All"

Mrs. Laura Bush announced "Deck the Halls and Welcome All" as the theme for the 2006 holiday season at the White House today. This year's sparkling decorations reflect the joys of the season and recall historic holiday memories at the White House.

Over the years, the White House has been the scene of many beloved Christmas memories. Throughout our nation's history, presidents and their families have welcomed many guests to the White House for yuletide affairs both merry and momentous.

Traditional and elegant decorations adorn the White House this year. Garlands with brightly colored glass ornaments cascade over doorways on the State Floor, with snowy greens, spiral topiaries and red ribbons decorated throughout the White House. The color schemes of scarlet, crimson and fuchsia boldly accent the traditional touches of the holiday decorations.

The official White House Christmas tree occupies most of the Blue Room. The 18 foot Douglas fir was grown by Francis and Margaret Botek and their children at the Crystal Spring Tree Farm in Lehighton, Pennsylvania. This year's tree twinkles with crystals and ornaments of iridescent glass.

Each guest visiting the White House will receive a tour book illustrated by Pamela Carroll from Carmel, California.

For more information, please visit www.whitehouse.gov/holiday .

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