Joe Biden Celebrates Final Thanksgiving at the White House with Turkey Pardons and Holiday Festivities

President Biden Pardons Thanksgiving Turkeys Peach and Blossom

President Joe Biden began his final holiday season at the White House by pardoning two turkeys, Peach and Blossom. They will live out their days in southern Minnesota instead of being served at Thanksgiving dinners.

Biden hosted 2,500 guests under sunny skies on the South Lawn. He shared jokes about the turkeys and reflected on his time in office. Biden expressed gratitude, acknowledging his upcoming departure on January 20, 2025. This date marks the transition of power to Republican President-elect Donald Trump.

Throughout December, the Bidens will engage in various festivities. The events will serve as a farewell to their time in the White House, including holiday parties for staff and Congress members.

During the turkey ceremony, Peach was humorously introduced as “living by the motto, ‘Keep calm and gobble on.’” Blossom represents Minnesota’s friendliness with the motto, “No fowl play. Just Minnesota nice.”

Peach and Blossom originated from farmer John Zimmerman in Minnesota. Zimmerman, president of the National Turkey Federation, has provided turkeys to the White House since the Truman administration. Official pardons began under President George H.W. Bush in 1989. The pardoned turkeys will reside at Farmamerica, an agricultural education center in Minnesota.

Separately, First Lady Jill Biden received the official White House Christmas tree, a Fraser fir from western North Carolina. The tree remained standing after Hurricane Helene devastated the area.

The Bidens also hosted a “Friendsgiving” event in New York City. Biden began the holiday season with a gala for friends, staff, and supporters. He expressed pride in their achievements and his belief in America’s leadership potential.

Despite political realities, younger Democrats appeared engaged in the celebration, hinting at their future roles in the party as the 2028 elections approach.