The traditional Easter Monday celebration at the White House had a solemn tone this year, as amid children’s activities and thousands of attendees, President Donald Trump decreed that all flags in the country fly at half-mast as a sign of mourning for the recent death of Pope Francis, who passed away this April 21 at the age of 88.
From the South Portico balcony, Trump addressed the families in attendance: “He was a good man, he worked hard. He loved the world and it is an honor to do so,” he expressed about the pontiff. The measure will be in force until sunset on the day of the burial, the president later confirmed on his social network Truth Social.
Easter in a familiar tone
The Easter celebration – which dates back to 1878 under the presidency of Rutherford Hayes – attracted nearly 40,000 attendees this year, mostly families with children.
Among the highlights was the traditional egg race, where children compete by pushing colored eggs with wooden spoons.
Trump and First Lady Melania Trump participated as symbolic judges in this Easter celebration, kicking off the races with a whistle.
The measure will be in effect until sunset on the day of the burial
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Workshops were also organized to paint eggs, send messages to U.S. troops and participate in children’s readings by cabinet figures such as Pam Bondi and Susie Wiles.
This event is also part of the activities to commemorate the 250th anniversary of U.S. independence, which will be celebrated in 2026.
Children were able to sign miniature replicas of the Declaration of Independence and dress up as founding fathers.
Egg shortage
One issue that generated controversy was the shortage of eggs, a consequence of an outbreak of avian flu that has affected domestic production.
While Trump thanked agricultural producers for their commitment at this Easter celebration, he also took the opportunity to criticize the Biden administration.
He blamed it for the crisis that raised prices in previous years.
“Under our administration, the price of eggs returned to normal,” Trump said, although current data shows an uptick in recent weeks.
For many Hispanic families in the United States, Easter represents not only a religious holiday, but an opportunity for community connection.
This year, the combination of tradition, politics and homage to Pope Francis had an emotional impact among those who value both faith and the country’s social and economic stability.
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