Biden expresses gratitude amid final Thanksgiving as president

In December 2024, First Lady Jill Biden revealed the official holiday decorations for her final Christmas in the White House. The decorations featured a unique theme designed to evoke a sense of peace and light, highlighting Dr. Biden's focus on family and education. The East Room was adorned with elaborate decorations, including a cascade of silver wraps and illuminated silhouettes representing unity and community. Over 300 volunteers contributed to the festive display, which included more than 28,000 ornaments and 150,000 holiday lights. A notable centerpiece was an impressive gingerbread replica of the White House that weighed 170 pounds, showcasing the culinary talents of the White House's pastry team. Besides the decorations, Dr. Biden opened the room used for receiving foreign dignitaries to the public for tours, emphasizing her commitment to education and community involvement, evidenced by the inclusion of self-portraits from schoolchildren that adorned the holiday trees in the dining room. The event was not only a visual spectacle but also symbolized the Bidens' intention to leave a lasting impression on both the administration's legacy and the American public by fostering connections and celebrating the spirit of community. Additionally, Joe Biden spent his last Thanksgiving holiday as president on Nantucket, reflecting on his legacy while expressing gratitude for the peaceful transition of power anticipated to follow his administration.