Overview
- President Trump returned from an Asia trip hours earlier and, with first lady Melania Trump, greeted families for trick-or-treating on the South Lawn as the U.S. Air Force Strolling Strings performed.
- The couple handed out full-size Hershey bars and Twizzlers in boxes bearing the presidential seal to a long line of costumed children and parents.
- The First Lady’s office had previewed a simple, fall-themed look featuring pumpkins, cascading faux leaves and a “Halloween 2025” sign on the South Portico.
- Event partners provided activities and giveaways: the International Fresh Produce Association distributed 7,500 Washington and New York apples and will donate pumpkins to DC Central Kitchen, while USPS, USDA and the National Confectioners Association offered toys, photo ops, mini pumpkins and sweets.
- The festivities took place during an ongoing government shutdown with East Wing demolition for a new ballroom visible on the grounds, prompting mixed reactions online about taste and timing.