Christmas at the White House
First Lady Laura Bush gives a virtual tour through the White House showing off the magnificent decorations, which will be enjoyed by 60,000 real visitors.

Both the President and First Lady send Christmas greetings to all Americans and offer a word about this year’s theme:

This Christmas season we give thanks for our nation’s abundant blessings.

In the spirit of gratitude for our natural and historic treasures found from sea to shining sea, this year’s theme highlights America’s national parks. From breathtaking landscapes to important historical sites, generations have marveled at God’s magnificent creation and cherished memories of visits to these special places.

Our deep appreciation goes to the White House Executive Residence staff, artists from across the country, and many volunteers. Their creativity and tireless efforts have made possible this year’s holiday decorations representing our beloved parks.

We send our warm wishes for a happy holiday season full of the love of your family and friends.

George W. Bush | Laura Bush

Some Fun Facts
The First Lady was presented with an 18-foot Fraser fir by Joe Freeman and Linda Jones from Laurel Springs, N.C. The tree is decorated with nearly 350 ornaments depicting the national parks. During the virtual tour, visitors will get a glimpse of a gingerbread White House constructed by White House Chef Bill Yosses. The structure consists of 300 pounds of white chocolate standing on a gingerbread foundation.

Other Fun Facts
The following is a list of items from the number of Christmas cards the Bushes send out to the number of gallons of eggnog that visitors will consume:

• Guests touring the White House during the Holidays: 60,000
• Number of Christmas Cards Sent by President and Mrs. Bush: 895,000
• Christmas Trees: 33
• Hand-Decorated Ornaments on Blue Room Christmas Tree: 347
• Feet of Garland: 862
• Wreaths: 232
• Amaryllis: 514
• Christmas Cookies: 20,000
• Assorted Holiday Cakes: 700
• Handmade Tamales: 10,000
• Pounds of Asparagus: 600
• Pounds of Green Beans: 400
• Gallons of Eggnog: 320

The President’s Hanukkah Message for 2007
As the President and First Lady prepare for the holiday season at the White House, they send their thoughts and prayers to honor those who celebrate Hanukkah. The following message by President George W. Bush not only offers a celebratory note, but it also gives a useful history for the reason that Hanukkah is celebrated:

I send greetings to all those celebrating Hanukkah, the festival of lights.

Hanukkah commemorates a victory for freedom and the courage and faith that made it possible. More than 2,000 years ago, the land of ancient Israel was conquered, its sacred Temple was desecrated, and the Jewish people were forbidden to practice their faith. A patriot named Judah Maccabee and his followers rose up against their oppressors to take back Jerusalem. When the Maccabees returned to reclaim and purify their Holy Temple, the oil used for dedication should have lasted only one day but burned for eight. Every year since then, Jews have celebrated this victory of light over darkness and given thanks for the presence of a just and loving God.

As Jewish Americans prepare to light the Hanukkah candles, we are reminded of the many blessings in our lives. The candles' glow has the power to lift our souls, put hope in our hearts, and make our Nation a more compassionate and peaceful place. We pray that those who still live in the darkness of tyranny will someday see the light of freedom, and we ask for God's continued guidance and boundless love and His protection of all those in need during this holiday season.

Laura and I wish all people of the Jewish faith a Happy Hanukkah.

GEORGE W. BUSH

Christmas at the White House is always a gala event.

For more information and a virtual tour of the White House, please visit
The White House: Holiday in the National Parks