Overview
- The Office of the First Lady posted photos on X on Oct. 28 showing pumpkins lining the South Portico stairs with strands of colorful leaves, signaling a fall-forward, non-spooky look.
- This is her first holiday season back in the Executive Residence after a four-year absence, returning to a tradition that has drawn scrutiny since a 2018 recording surfaced in 2020.
- Reaction on X was mixed, with comments ranging from praise for a "classy" look to criticism of the Halloween signage and broader complaints tied to the ongoing government shutdown.
- A White House release says a trick-or-treat event is scheduled for Thursday, Oct. 30, on the South Lawn with the president and first lady distributing candy and the U.S. Air Force Strolling Strings performing.
- The decor arrives as construction continues on a planned presidential ballroom that requires East Wing demolition, with the Wall Street Journal reporting Melania Trump has privately raised concerns and PEOPLE seeking comment from her office.