Washington, DC - On Monday, October 30, 2017, the White House will open the South Lawn to ghosts and goblins of all ages.
Gates will be open from 4:00 PM to 7:00 PM to schoolchildren and parents from over 20 Maryland, Virginia, and District of Columbia schools, as well as military families and community organizations.
During this event, trick-or-treaters will enjoy seeing the South Portico decorated in spider webs, creating a festive look and feel. There will also be bats and orange pumpkins with profiles of past presidents. Fog will fill the air, and the trees and south facade will be lit with different colors throughout the night.
The President and First Lady will hand out cookies created by the White House Pastry Kitchen, as well as Presidential M&M’s and other candies. Various departments and agencies such as the United States Secret Service, National Aeronautics and Space Administration, Federal Emergency Management Agency, National Park Service, and the Department of Education will also be on hand to give out various items and participate in the festivities.
Please note the following items are not allowed on the White House grounds:
- Aerosols of any kind
- Animals (except guide dogs)
- Any pointed object
- Backpacks (oversized)
- Balloons
- Beverages of any kind
- Duffle bags and/or suitcases
- Electric stun guns
- Fireworks / firecrackers
- Food of any kind
- Guns / ammunition
- Insulated metal containers
- Knives of any kind
- Mace
- Selfie sticks
- Smoking (including e-cigarettes)
- Tablets (including iPads)
- Toy weapons of any kind
- Water bottles
The Secret Service reserves the right to prohibit any other personal items. However, strollers, wheelchairs, umbrellas (no metal tips), and cameras are permitted. All items needed for medical purposes will be permitted on the tour (such as wheelchairs, electric scooters, glucose tablets, and EpiPens). Please identify and explain all items needed for medical purposes to Secret Service agents upon arrival.
In the event of inclement weather, the event may be cancelled. Please call the 24-hour information line at (202) 456-7041 to check on the status of the event.
