The White House Easter egg roll was delayed by thunder and lightning for 90 minutes on Monday, but eventually, the event began under gray skies and intermittent rain. More than 40,000 people, 10,000 more than last year, were expected to participate in the event. This year’s theme is “EGG-ucation,” led by Jill Biden, a teacher for over 30 years. The egg roll is an annual tradition dating back to 1878 and includes various stations on the South Lawn and Ellipse to help children learn about farming, healthier eating, exercise, and more. Activities included STEM-related workshops, such as making circuit-breakers and simulating a fossil dig, along with writing notes to U.S. troops and first responders with Operation Gratitude, a nonprofit organization.
Guests at the event included thousands of military and veteran families, their caregivers, and survivors, along with members of the general public who claimed tickets through an online lottery. Admittance to the event was staggered in nine waves throughout the day. First Lady Jill Biden, who still teaches English and writing at a northern Virginia community college, and President Joe Biden did not host the egg roll during the first year of his administration in 2021 due to the COVID-19 pandemic. However, it has resumed over the last two years. The tradition of the egg roll dates back to the presidency of Rutherford B. Hayes, who opened the White House lawn to children after they were kicked off the grounds of the U.S. Capitol.
The event featured a large schoolhouse erected on the South Lawn offering various activities for kids related to science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM). Children had the opportunity to engage in hands-on workshops, including making circuit-breakers and simulating a fossil dig. Additionally, they were able to write notes to U.S. troops and first responders with Operation Gratitude, a nonprofit organization. The theme of “EGG-ucation” aimed to educate children on various topics such as farming, healthier eating, and exercise. The event provided a fun and interactive way for kids to learn and engage with different educational activities.
The Easter egg roll at the White House has become a cherished annual tradition that dates back to 1878. This year’s event, with the theme of “EGG-ucation,” saw an increase in participation with over 40,000 people expected to attend. Various stations on the South Lawn and Ellipse offered activities for children to learn about different topics, including farming, healthier eating, and exercise. The event also included workshops related to science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM), providing kids with hands-on experiences in these fields. Overall, the event aimed to provide a fun and educational experience for participants, including military and veteran families, caregivers, survivors, and members of the general public.
Despite a delay due to thunder and lightning, the White House Easter egg roll eventually took place under gray skies and intermittent rain. First Lady Jill Biden, a teacher for over 30 years, led this year’s event with a focus on “EGG-ucation.” The event included various activities for children, such as making circuit-breakers, simulating a fossil dig, and writing notes to U.S. troops and first responders. Guests at the event, including military and veteran families, caregivers, survivors, and members of the general public, enjoyed a day of fun and educational experiences on the White House lawn. This tradition, dating back to the presidency of Rutherford B. Hayes, continues to bring joy and learning to participants of all ages.
