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President Trump, first lady host ‘Halloween at the White House’

WASHINGTON — Less than a week before Halloween, President Donald Trump and first lady Melania Trump transformed the South Portico facing the South Lawn into a festive scene and invited hundreds of families to celebrate the holiday — with some coronavirus-related safety precautions.

The Trumps hosted their fourth annual Halloween event Sunday night at the White House, where they also invited frontline workers and military families to partake in the festivities.

Decorations of brightly-colored leaves, pumpkins and chrysanthemums reflected the autumn theme, while the U.S. Air Force band played renditions of popular songs, including Michael Jackson’s “Thriller.”

Instead of the usual tradition of passing out treats to children by hand, the Trumps waved while children walked along a path and collected goodies separately. Staff who handed out candy wore gloves.

Costumed children and their families were still able to take photos and talk to the Trumps from a distance. The President and the first lady appeared to be most entertained by a boy and girl who dressed up as the presidential couple.

While the Trumps did not wear masks, all attendees over the age of 2 were required to wear them, as were all White House staff working the event.

Representatives from NASA, the U.S. Departments of Agriculture, Interior, Labor, Transportation and Education provided fun exhibits and activities for children, including a display of an inflatable rocket, fun photo opportunities and a chance to earn a Junior Ranger badge.

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