Jill Biden’s ‘EGG-ucational’ Easter Egg Roll
Jill Biden’s ‘EGG-ucational’ Easter Egg Roll
First lady marks annual tradition by emphasizing education.
Thousands of people under occasional rain showers gathered on the South Lawn of the White House Monday for its annual Easter Egg Roll where First Lady Dr. Jill Biden continued her theme of “EGGucation.”
“I’m a teacher, so I love any time when we can turn the White House into a classroom,” Jill Biden told the crowd gathered at the White House. “And that’s what we’re doing today.”
The South Lawn and Ellipse were transformed into a school-like community that included educational activities for children of all ages. Attendees visited areas including a School House Activity Area, Reading Nook, Field Trip to the Farm, Picture Day, a Physical “EGGucation” Zone, and a Snack Time Tent. The South Facade of the White House was adorned with balloons, marked with STEAM school subjects, a nod to Jill Biden’s belief that with EGGucation, “all students can soar.”
“The South Lawn is transforming into our learning playground and school community. And there’s so much to discover,” Biden told the crowd in her opening remarks at the start of the event. “Education expands our horizons and transports us to new worlds. Just like these balloons, it allows all students to soar and reach unimaginable heights.”
The White House Easter tradition was expected to draw 40,000 people and dates back to 1878. Children used wooden spoons to roll colorful eggs in a race across the South Lawn. Participants included thousands of military and veteran families, caregivers, and survivors. Tickets for the general public were distributed to guests from all across the country through an online public lottery.
View this photo essay of the 2024 White House Easter Egg Roll
“Easter reminds us of the power of hope and renewal, sacrifice and resurrection, but mainly love and grace toward one another,” President Joe Biden told the crowd. “It’s a time to pray for one another, to cherish the blessings and the possibilities that we have as Americans.”
The American Egg Board, on behalf of America’s Egg Farmers, continued its more than 45-year history of participation in the event as the White House legacy partner in support of the Easter Egg Roll. The American Egg Board donated 64,000 eggs to the White House for the event—40,000 for egg rolling and 24,000 for decorating and other uses, the Associated Press reported.
And from the Reading Nook, Jill Biden read Brown Bear, Brown Bear, What Do You See? to the crowd. In the Field Trip to the Farm area, children learned from farmers about how they help feed families. A Physical EGGucation (PE) Zone allowed children of all ages to make their way through the Ellipse’s obstacle course and other schoolyard activities. Children’s favorite costumed characters strolled the grounds and music from live marching bands played.
“I hope that you all learn something new today,” Biden said in her remarks. “But most importantly, I hope you all have fun.”