The White House is shaking things up this year by seeking corporate sponsors for the annual Easter Egg Roll, a beloved tradition held on the South Lawn. This event, scheduled for Monday, marks a new approach as the administration looks to tech giants for support amidst ongoing scrutiny of their ties to the Trump administration.
The Easter Egg Roll, which dates back to President Rutherford B. Hayes in 1878, features activities like the classic Egg Roll and Egg Hunt. These activities will include real eggs donated by American egg farmers, ensuring a festive atmosphere for families. The White House Historical Association is partnering with the administration to enhance the event, promising a variety of entertaining activities for guests.
Among the sponsors this year are major companies like YouTube, Amazon, and Meta, the parent company of Facebook and Instagram. This decision comes as tech executives, including Jeff Bezos, Mark Zuckerberg, and Sundar Pichai, have faced backlash for their financial support of Trump’s inauguration fund and their interactions with the administration.
The White House has reportedly set sponsorship costs between $75,000 and $200,000. The funds raised will go to the White House Historical Association, a nonprofit dedicated to preserving the history of the White House. YouTube expressed its excitement about returning, emphasizing its commitment to connecting kids with their favorite creators during the event.
This year’s Easter Egg Roll comes at a time when egg prices in the U.S. have surged due to an avian flu outbreak that has devastated poultry farms. Despite the challenges, the White House is optimistic about the event and its ability to bring families together for a day of fun and celebration.
As the event approaches, it will be interesting to see how this new sponsorship model impacts the Easter Egg Roll and the relationship between the White House and corporate America.