President Trump and first lady Melania Trump hosted 6,000 guests at the White House’s annual Halloween celebration on Thursday, capped by a surprise Air Force One flyover that thrilled costumed children on the South Lawn.
The presidential aircraft, bearing its signature red, white, blue and gold livery, roared overhead and passed over the South Lawn before circling back for a final pass. Trump paused the festivities to point out the plane to the young trick-or-treaters gathered below.
The president and first lady distributed commemorative full-sized chocolate bars to children throughout the evening. One young attendee dressed as a founding father presented Trump with what appeared to be either the Constitution or the Declaration of Independence for his signature. The president also autographed the uniforms of two race car drivers who attended.
Spooky songs from the US Air Force string band provided the soundtrack for the evening. At one point, Trump broke into a brief shimmy to the theme from “Ghostbusters.”
The South Lawn was transformed with seasonal decorations, including a massive harvest moon installation on the balcony that glowed orange and featured silhouettes of flying bats moving across its surface. Pumpkins and squash covered the grounds, and the Agriculture Department provided a giant pumpkin for photo opportunities.
Administration officials and their families joined the festivities, including Secretary of War Pete Hegseth, deputy chief of staff Stephen Miller, and US Trade Representative Jamieson Greer. Military families, law enforcement personnel, and foster and adoptive families were also among the invited guests.
The Treasury Department distributed coloring books promoting Trump Accounts to the children, while the Center of Science and Industry provided STEAM science-experiment kits. The International Fresh Produce Association contributed apples from Michigan, and the National Confectioners Association supplied additional candy.
Construction activity continued nearby on the president’s new ballroom project, with sparks visible from metal saws cutting through material.
The Halloween event has become an annual tradition at the White House, with the Trumps continuing the practice of opening the executive mansion to families for trick-or-treating on the South Lawn.