Holiday traditions at the White House through the years

Holiday traditions at the White House through the years

The White House Christmas tree in the Blue Room of the White House is seen through a doorway in Washington, Wednesday, Dec. 4, 2013. (AP Photo/Jacquelyn Martin)

Every December, immediately following Thanksgiving, the White House transforms for the holidays. This incredible display of lights, decorations, desserts, gifts, and more involves thousands of White House employees working around the clock to get everything ready.

Over the years, several holiday traditions at the White House have continued to develop like the delivery of the White House Christmas Tree and the lighting of the White House Christmas tree.

Possibly the most unusual tradition is for the sugar-lover. Every year, the White House pastry chef creates a replica White House from scratch using fondant and other sugary treats. This year, the gingerbread White House even featured a sugar replica of Bo, the White House dog.

We take a look back at the White House Christmas over the years. From Hoover to the Obama administration, many of the traditions we saw then continue today.

Mrs. Hoover with Peggy Ann and Herbert III

Last year the children were visitors at the White House during the Christmas season, and they arrived in Washington on Dec. 22, 1931, to again add to the Christmas celebration of the presidential family. Mrs. Hoover is with Peggy Ann (left) and Herbert III (right) as they arrived at Union Station to regale Mrs. Hoover with tales of their trip from California.