First Lady Seeks Volunteers for 2026 Christmas Celebration
First Lady Melania Trump is calling for volunteers interested in decorating or performing at the White House for this year’s Christmas festivities.
Applications opened on July 27, with a deadline set for August 28 at 5:00 p.m. ET. Those selected will be notified by October 2 at 5:00 p.m. ET.
To apply, individuals must be U.S. citizens aged 18 or older, and they should apply individually rather than as a group. It’s important to note that volunteers will need to cover their own travel, accommodation, and personal expenses.
Decorating will take place from November 23 through November 29. The shifts are organized as follows:
- Shift 1: November 23 – November 25
- Shift 2: November 27 – November 29
- Full Week: November 23 – November 29
While applicants can indicate their preferred shift, there’s no guarantee of placement in that specific time frame.
Performers, including school bands, choirs, and holiday entertainers, will get the chance to showcase their talents during open houses in December.
As part of the application process, all volunteers will need to undergo a background check.
The Office of the First Lady stated on social media, “Americans from every U.S. state and territory are invited to apply for the opportunity to assist with decorating or showcase their talents as a performer at the holiday open houses.”
Each year, hundreds of volunteers are chosen to help decorate the White House, which sees tens of thousands of visitors during the holiday season.
Last year’s theme, “Home is Where the Heart is,” included several patriotic elements to commemorate the 250th anniversary of American independence, such as specially designed Christmas tree ornaments.
Officials mentioned that “every detail” from last year’s theme was personally selected by the First Lady.
The theme for the 2026 holiday season has not yet been disclosed, but the White House Historical Association has already released several ornaments to mark the Semiquincentennial.
