White House Cancels Easter Egg Roll

White House Easter Egg Roll
Photo | White House

The White House announced Monday that the annual Easter Egg Roll was canceled to prevent the spread of COVID-19 infection that grips the nation. The 142nd egg roll, originally scheduled for Monday, April 13, is an annual celebration for families hosted by the President and the First Lady.

The egg roll, held on the South Lawn, is one of the oldest annual events in White House history, which dates back to 1878 and the presidency of Rutherford B. Hayes. However, there are accounts that informal festivities began with egg-rolling parties during President Abraham Lincoln’s term in office.

Traditionally, the planning of the egg roll is handled by the first lady. First Lady Lou Hoover had part of the South Lawn roped off for folk dancing. First Lady Pat Nixon introduced the traditional egg roll races. First Lady Nancy Reagon began the custom of providing attendees with a wooden Easter egg as they were leaving.

This is not the first time the egg roll was canceled. During World War I and World War II, there were no egg rolls from 1917 to 1920 and from 1943 to 1945. Construction on the White House from 1946 to 1952 also sidelined the event.

The announcement from the Office of the First Lady:

Out of an abundance of caution and in accordance with the National Emergency Declaration concerning the COVID-19, the Office of the First Lady is announcing that this year’s White House Easter Egg Roll has been canceled.

“The health and safety of all Americans must be the first priority, especially right now,” said First Lady Melania Trump. “I deeply regret this cancellation, but we need to make difficult decisions in the short-term to ensure a healthy country for the long-term. During this time, I encourage everyone to listen to state and local officials, and follow CDC guidelines in order to help protect the health and well-being of everyone.”

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