Despite the COVID-19 pandemic, the White House will still host Halloween this year. First Lady Melania Trump invited military families and frontline workers as well as school children to trick-or-treat on Oct. 25.
She wrote, “On Sunday, @POTUS & I will safely welcome frontline workers, military families, schoolchildren & trick-or-treaters for the annual @WhiteHouse #Halloween celebration. We look forward to seeing all of you for this year’s festivities!”
The White House Will Host Halloween Early
According to a White House statement, this will be the fourth time the Trumps have hosted a Halloween festival. To prepare for the event, the White House has been redecorated with an autumn theme. For instance, blossoming chrysanthemums have been used to decorate the East and West staircases. Decorators have also decorated the grounds with pumpkins and brightly colored leaves.
Gates will open on Sunday (Oct. 25) from 3:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. for frontline workers, military families, and school children. Both the first lady and President Donald Trump plan to greet attending trick-or-treaters. According to the press release, the White House will deploy social distancing guidelines due to the pandemic.
The press release urged attendees to take precautions to ensure their health and safety. The guest capacity has been limited for the event, and hours have also been extended. Additionally, guests are expected to wear face coverings and practice social distancing while at the event. Likewise, staff and personnel will wear face masks and gloves. The event will have hand sanitizer stations and function on a no-touch policy.
In addition to trick-or-treating, several departments have planned activities for attendees and their children. For instance, NASA will have space-themed activities such as an inflatable rocket. Meanwhile, Smokey the Bear will join kids at the Department of Agriculture station. For music, the U.S. Air Force Strolling Strings will play a mix of Halloween songs for the event.
