Halloween at the White House goes ‘Hallo-READ!’ in a spooky twist

| Updated: 01 November, 2023 11:23 am IST

NEW DELHI: Halloween celebrations have quite a significance in the US and everyone tries to bring forward their most creative side with the party. Following the steps, President Joe Biden and First Lady Jill Biden hosted a “Hallo-READ!” event, where books were the centre focus of the event.

The occasion featured decorations inspired by well-known literary figures, spooky stories, and a dedicated period for ghost story sharing. First lady read the counting book “Ten Spooky Pumpkins,” to a group of enthralled kids.

Other prominent White House officials, including Education Secretary Miguel Cardona, White House Press Secretary Karine Jean-Pierre, and a number of well-known authors, also narrated stories during the event.

The Halloween party at the White House had gray skies and drizzle which added a spooky element to the eve of the holiday. Despite the not-quite-perfect weather, the event featured a joyful atmosphere.

First Lady Jill Biden joined in on the Halloween fun by dressing like Willow the cat, complete with a tail, black nose, and feline ears. Press Secretary Jean-Pierre, meanwhile, got into the Halloween spirit by dressing up as an angel with wings and a halo, saying that she preferred her angelic appearance to a devil costume.

The White House couple spent about 90 minutes interacting with children from military families and public schools in the area who were invited specifically for the event. President Biden and the First Lady gave out M&Ms and Hershey’s Kisses to the kids in costume as they walked up the driveway to the White House. The bags and buckets were stamped with the presidential seal.

The festive atmosphere was enhanced by a military band performing instrumental renditions of popular Halloween songs, such as “Thriller” and “Monster Mash.” Scholastic donated the books for the “Hallo-READ!” event in addition to the candies. It was anticipated that 8,000 guests were in attendance at “Hallo-READ!”

Also Read Story

NIA conducts searches in Hizb-ut-Tahrir conspiracy case

Omar Abdullah chosen CM candidate for J&K

Ratan Tata: Legacy of leadership, compassion

Omar Abdullah poised to become J&K’s first CM post-UT status