How to Volunteer for White House Christmas Decorating: A Guide to Joining the Holiday Spirit at the White House

Volunteering to help decorate the White House for Christmas is a unique and cherished tradition in the United States. Every year, hundreds of volunteers from across the country apply to assist in transforming the historic residence into a winter wonderland. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how you can increase your chances of being part of this special event:

1. Understand the Application Cycle The White House begins accepting volunteer applications for holiday decorating in late summer, typically between August and early September. The application period is relatively short, so staying updated on official channels is crucial.

2. Where to Apply Applications are managed by the First Lady’s office through the White House’s official website. Head to whitehouse.gov and look for announcements on the “Get Involved” or “News” sections. Occasionally, the official White House social media channels also share details about volunteering opportunities.

3. Prepare Your Application To apply, you’ll likely need to provide:

1. Basic personal information
2. Background check authorization (mandatory due to security requirements)
3. Any relevant volunteer or decorating experience. If you have a background in arts, crafts, or floral arrangements, highlight it!
4. A brief letter outlining why you want to volunteer and any unique skills you bring to the team

4. Selection Process and Timeline Applicants are selected based on their enthusiasm, reliability, and creative experience. If chosen, you will be notified by mid-fall (usually October). Volunteers are generally responsible for their own transportation and lodging in Washington D.C.

5. What to Expect Decorating takes place over several days in late November, just after Thanksgiving. Volunteers are assigned to teams and work under the guidance of the White House Chief Floral Designer. The tasks might include trimming trees, hanging garlands, crafting ornaments, and arranging decorations according to a detailed theme and floor plan.

As an interior designer, I can tell you that this large-scale transformation relies heavily on planning and precise execution. The design process starts months in advance, with layouts and mood boards that capture the year’s theme. For those who love detailed projects and want to experience professional-level, festive interior design, being a White House Christmas volunteer is truly unforgettable. If you wish to level up your own holiday decorating—whether for home, office, or community projects—you might find digital tools like a Home Designer app useful for visualizing layouts and experimenting with seasonal décor, bringing professional inspiration to any space.

Tips 1:

Sign up for White House email updates and follow official social media channels—these are the fastest ways to receive notifications about volunteer opportunities as soon as they're announced.

FAQ

Q: Who is eligible to volunteer for White House Christmas decorating?

A: U.S. citizens over age 18, with a clean background, can apply. No professional decorating experience is required, though it’s helpful.

Q: How competitive is the selection process?

A: Very competitive—several hundred volunteers are chosen from thousands of applicants nationwide every year.

Q: Are travel or accommodation costs covered for volunteers?

A: No, volunteers are responsible for their own travel and lodging expenses in Washington, D.C.

Q: What exactly do volunteers do during the decorating process?

A: Volunteers assist with everything from assembling ornaments and arranging wreaths to decorating intricate trees and installing elaborate displays throughout public rooms.

Q: How can I stay updated on application dates?

A: Regularly check the White House’s official website, subscribe to their newsletter, and follow their social media profiles for timely announcements each year.