The annual Easter Egg Roll at the White House is set to return on Monday, April 21, 2025, marking the 147th edition of this cherished tradition. Dating back to 1878, the event was initiated by President Rutherford B. Hayes, who invited children to roll eggs down the South Lawn after Congress prohibited children from playing on Capitol Hill two years prior. This year’s celebration promises to be particularly special, as it will be the first to allow corporate sponsorships, a decision that has sparked some controversy.
For families with children under 13, tickets to the Easter Egg Roll are available through an online lottery. Participants will have the chance to join President Donald Trump, First Lady Melania Trump, White House staff, and their families for a day filled with fun and history. The event aims to bring history to life for kids, allowing them to sign a mini-Declaration of Independence, dress up as Founding Fathers, and engage with an activity book designed for the occasion.
Despite ongoing concerns about bird flu affecting egg supplies, the event will feature real eggs. Approximately 2,500 dozen eggs, totaling 30,000 eggs, have been donated by farmers for the festivities. Emily Metz, president and CEO of the American Egg Board, expressed the significance of using real eggs, stating, "The heart of this event is about bringing joy to children and families, and in these difficult times for egg farmers, it’s important to celebrate wherever we can." Metz emphasized that eggs are central to many cherished Easter and Passover traditions.
Since its inception, the White House has hosted the Easter Egg Roll almost every year, with notable exceptions during World War I and World War II, during President Harry S. Truman’s renovation of the White House, and during the COVID-19 pandemic. The tradition has become a staple of American culture, symbolizing the arrival of spring and the joy of childhood.
In preparation for this year’s event, the White House has partnered with several prominent companies, including YouTube, Meta, and Amazon, to enhance the experience through financial support, activities, and giveaways. This new approach to sponsorship has drawn criticism from some who argue that it could lead to ethical concerns. Critics have pointed out that the involvement of corporations in a government-sponsored event could blur the lines between public service and private interests.
However, supporters of the sponsorship initiative argue that it allows for a more vibrant and engaging event. The White House has emphasized that the sponsorships will not only provide financial backing but will also help create a more memorable experience for families attending the egg roll.
As excitement builds for the event, attendees are reminded that participation requires entry through the official White House Egg Roll lottery. This lottery system ensures that the event remains accessible to families across the nation, fostering a sense of community and shared experience.
In addition to the egg rolling activities, the event will feature various entertainment options, making it a day of fun for all attendees. Children will have the opportunity to engage in games, crafts, and other activities that celebrate the spirit of Easter and the arrival of spring.
With the event just around the corner, families are encouraged to prepare for a day filled with laughter, learning, and the joy of tradition. As the White House opens its doors for this iconic event, it reinforces the importance of community and family in American culture.
As the day approaches, many are eager to witness how the incorporation of corporate sponsorships will play out, and whether it will enhance or detract from the spirit of the Easter Egg Roll. The event is not just about rolling eggs; it’s about fostering connections and celebrating the joys of childhood.
For those unable to attend in person, USA TODAY will stream the event live, allowing viewers from across the country to join in on the festivities. This year’s Easter Egg Roll is poised to be a memorable occasion, blending tradition with modernity, and creating lasting memories for families.
