Washington, DC – (November 25, 2019) – The official beginning of Christmas arrived at the White House today in the form of a majestic 16-year-old Douglas fir. The tree was delivered to the First Family via horse-drawn wagon. This very special Christmas tree will be on display in the Blue Room and is presented by Larry Snyder of Mahantongo Valley Farms, Pitman, Pennsylvania.

The tree was presented to Mrs. Trump by the Snyders, Grand Champion winners of the 2019 National Christmas Tree Contest, sponsored by the National Christmas Tree Association. The NCTA has presented the Official White House Christmas Tree since 1966. The Grand Champion grower wins the privilege of presenting a tree to the White House.

Snyder was named Grand Champion in the National Christmas Tree Association’s Christmas tree contest in August. With this award, goes the honor of presenting a Christmas tree to the White House. Mr. Snyder is celebrating his win after participating in the Pennsylvania state contest more than a dozen times and competing in the 2017 national contest, he continued to pursue the honor of providing a tree to the White House.

The spectacular Douglas fir was hand selected by Timothy Harleth, White House Chief Usher, assisted by White House Superintendent of Grounds Dale Haney at Larry’s farm in Pennsylvania on October 15th.

“The Snyder family exemplifies the commitment of Christmas tree growers across the country,” said Paul Schroeder, President of the National Christmas Tree Association. “We are proud to grow a product that provides cherished memories for families and is often the centerpiece of the Christmas celebration.”

2019 will mark the 54th year a member from the National Christmas Tree Association has presented the White House with a Christmas tree.