Melania Trump Visits Children’s National Hospital for Holiday Cheer

On December 5, 2025, First Lady Melania Trump made a heartfelt visit to Children’s National Hospital in Washington, D.C. There, she read festive children’s books to young patients, interacted with them personally, and distributed “Be Best” ornaments as gifts, all while spreading messages of holiday joy and encouragement.

This annual event has become a cherished tradition dating back to 1945, when it began with former First Lady Beth Truman, the spouse of President Harry S. Truman, and has since been upheld by each first lady.

Among those attending the event were an 11-year-old boy and a 5-year-old girl, who accompanied Mrs. Trump to the hospital’s atrium.

She brought along special gifts for the children, including a unique Christmas ornament featuring the phrase “Be Best,” which represents her initiatives focused on child welfare, online safety, and anti-bullying efforts.

One touching moment caught on video featured a young girl with a bright red ribbon in her hair running up to Mrs. Trump for an enthusiastic hug, capturing the hearts of viewers on social media.

In response, the First Lady knelt down, embraced the girl, and they shared a spontaneous moment that beautifully illustrated the spirit of the holiday season.

Later, Melania settled into a plush armchair beneath a decorated Christmas tree and captivated the young audience with a reading of How Does Santa Go Down the Chimney? by Mac Barnett. Nearby, Santa Claus and Mrs. Claus, along with two young helpers, added to the festive atmosphere, with Santa presenting the First Lady a gold coin inscribed with “Believe” and “Merry Christmas.”

“Santa will be visiting you this Christmas and bringing you lots of toys. I wish you all a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year,” she told the children. She added that her husband, President Donald Trump, is also “sending his love and blessings.”

After the group activities, Mrs. Trump took the time to connect with each child individually, crouching down to their eye level and offering more words of encouragement and holiday spirit.

Her visit also included a quieter moment in the hospital’s hematology-oncology wing, where she met with other young patients and their families, engaging in more personal conversations away from the cameras.

Overall, the occasion reflected a blend of joy, compassion, and the true spirit of the holiday season.