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The White House Easter Egg Roll gathers children and families on Easter Monday for a day of games on the South Lawn. This cherished tradition features egg rolling races, story time with the First Lady, and appearances by the Easter Bunny. Join in the fun by planning your visit, learning about its history, or creating your own egg roll at home.
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Expected White House Easter Egg Roll Deals
While specific 2027 promotions for the White House Easter Egg Roll are yet to be announced, families can anticipate a surge in Easter-themed deals from major retailers. Look for discounts on egg decorating kits from brands like PAAS and Dye-A-Rama, as well as special offers on children’s books and toys from Barnes & Noble and Target. Candy companies such as Hershey’s and Cadbury will likely feature promotions on their seasonal treats, while grocery stores like Whole Foods and Kroger may offer deals on organic eggs and picnic supplies. We will update this page with confirmed live deals as April 6 approaches.
Platform Guide for White House Easter Egg Roll
Tag @nationaltoday_ and use #WHEasterEggRoll. Share photos of your family’s egg rolling fun or White House visit memories.
TikTok
Tag @www.nationaltoday.com and use #WHEasterEggRoll. Create short videos showcasing DIY egg decorating or fun facts about the event.
Mention National Today (facebook.com/nationaltoday) and use #WHEasterEggRoll. Share historical photos or tips for attending the event.
White House Easter Egg Roll Hero
Lucy Hayes
History of White House Easter Egg Roll
The White House Easter Egg Roll is a tradition that had its origins in 1878, through former President Rutherford B. Hayes. Some even state that events like this one began a few years earlier, under President Abraham Lincoln. Children from across the country travel to Washington, D.C. every Easter Monday to compete in a decorated egg rolling race, and throughout the years, the event has grown to have more activities and welcome an increasing number of people.
President Benjamin Harrison, in 1889, asked the U.S. Marine Band to play music during the Easter Egg Roll, and, since then, their participation has been an official part of the event’s schedule. In 1969, the First Lady asked a staff member to put on an Easter Bunny costume to greet the children on the driveway of the White House, which originated the custom of having Easter Bunnies hopping around the gardens. In 1981, a big hunt for wooden eggs signed by famous figures was proposed by President Ronald Reagan and now, every year, wooden eggs are considered the main souvenir of the White House Easter Egg Roll.
There were a few times when the White House Easter Egg Roll didn’t happen. During World Wars I and II, the White House abstained from celebrating the event, in respect of the tragedies brought upon the American people. From 1946 to 1952, the event couldn’t take place because of conservation and renovation efforts in the White House. Later on, in 1959, 1964, 1978, 1984, and 2001, the event was canceled due to bad weather conditions. And, finally, in 2020 and 2021, due to the Covid-19 pandemic, the event had to be given up as well.
White House Easter Egg Roll timeline
President Rutherford B. Hayes officially starts the tradition.
President Benjamin Harrison asks the U.S. Marine Band to play music at the event.
First Lady Thelma Nixon has a staff member put on an Easter Bunny costume to greet the children.
President Ronald Reagan proposes a hunt for wooden eggs signed by famous people.
How Businesses Can Celebrate White House Easter Egg Roll
Local businesses can embrace the spirit of the White House Easter Egg Roll by hosting community egg hunts or decorating contests. Restaurants might offer special ‘Easter Bunny’ themed brunches or kid-friendly menus on Easter Monday. Retailers could create window displays featuring spring pastels and egg-themed merchandise, or offer discounts on children’s books and outdoor games. Consider partnering with local schools or charities to provide Easter baskets to underprivileged children, fostering community engagement and goodwill.
White House Easter Egg Roll FAQs
When is the White House Easter Egg Roll?
For 2027, the White House Easter Egg Roll is scheduled for Monday, March 29. This date ensures families can continue the festive spirit right after Easter weekend, with the First Family hosting the beloved event.
How many people attend the White House Easter Egg Roll?
With attendance numbers consistently in the tens of thousands, the 2027 event is expected to draw a similar crowd. The White House continues its tradition of inviting children and their families from across the nation to participate.
How long has the White House Easter Egg Roll been celebrated?
By 2027, this cherished event will be nearing its 150th anniversary, a testament to its enduring appeal and historical significance. It remains one of the oldest continuous traditions at the Executive Mansion.
What activities are featured at the Easter Egg Roll?
In 2027, attendees can anticipate a similar array of engaging activities, including the popular egg decorating stations and various sports and fitness zones. The Easter Bunny and other costumed characters also roam the South Lawn, interacting with guests.
White House Easter Egg Roll Activities
Attend the event
Tickets are available online. You can always get one and travel to Washington, D.C. to partake in the celebrations yourself.
Watch it online
If you can’t travel to attend the Race, you can watch it being live-streamed online on the White House's official social media. It’s just as fun.
Decorate an egg
Why not grab an egg and decorate it yourself? You can use paint, stickers, and even nail polish. Be creative!
5 Facts About Easter Eggs You’ll Love
They are ancient
Traditional Easter Eggs have existed for thousands of years, dating back to Mesopotamia.
They can be massive
The largest decorated Easter Egg ever made was over 50 feet tall.
Eggs are good omens
In many cultures, eggs mean new life and rebirth.
The dye represents the blood of Christ
Eggs were dyed red to represent the blood of Christ spilled on Good Friday.
They can be expensive
One of the most expensive Easter Eggs ever made was the Winter Fabergé Egg, and it cost $9,579,500 in its most recent auction.
Why We Love White House Easter Egg Roll
It’s fun
It’s a great way to extend Easter fun. Both young and old can play, run around, and eat lots of candy.
It brings Americans together
The Race is an event held at the White House and broadcasted live to the entire country. As such, it gets Americans together to watch and have fun.
It’s a fun way to celebrate Easter
There are many ways to celebrate Easter. Still, we think the Easter Egg Roll is the most fun of all!
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