FLOSSI’S WHITE HOUSE EGG ROLL

The first official White House Easter Egg Roll — the precursor to today’s famous Easter Egg Hunt on the South Lawn — took place on Monday, April 22, 1878, during the presidency of Rutherford B. Hayes.

In the early 1800s, children in Washington, D.C. would roll Easter eggs on the sloped lawns of the U.S. Capitol.

But in 1876, due to damage to the grounds, Congress passed a law banning the use of the Capitol grounds for such activities.

In 1878, a group of children approached President Rutherford B. Hayes directly and asked if they could roll eggs on the White House lawn.

President Hayes said yes, and the first official White House Easter Egg Roll was born.

Over the years, the event grew into a significant public celebration.

Presidents and First Ladies have added games, music, costumed characters, and celebrity appearances.

The White House lawn now features rolling races, egg hunts, book readings, and live entertainment.