Tens of thousands of children crowded the White House lawn today to roll Easter eggs, eat healthful snacks and play games, with some skipping school to accept Barack Obama's invitation to frolic on the White House grounds.
The 30,000 children, parents and other well-wishers enjoyed a day-long series of music, games and food, courtesy of Michelle Obama, who is the event's official host. Pop star Fergie sang the national anthem, and Ziggy Marley was scheduled to perform.
"Our goal today is just to have fun," the first lady told the children from a balcony overlooking the south lawn. "We want to focus on activity, healthy eating. We've got yoga, we've got dancing, we've got storytelling, we've got Easter egg decorating. We've got basketball - a little soccer, as well. And we want everybody to think about moving their bodies."
Vice-president Joseph Biden and his wife Jill Biden arrived with an Easter bunny. Michelle and the president wore casual dress. Seven-year old Sasha sported a blue headband, purple skirt and hot pink tights with black and white trainers, 10-year old Malia wore a navy blue and light blue striped sweater and blue pants.
The White House ordered more than 30,000 wooden souvenir eggs (made from ecologically sustainable timber), and also prepared 13,000 boiled and dyed eggs for the children, White House aides said. The president, Michelle Obama and daughters Malia and Sasha kicked off the day, which also featured games led by professional athletes and local high school sport stars.
"All the kids were having fun," President Obama said later. "It reminds us why we do the work we do."
The White House said the first White House easter egg roll took place in 1878 when President Rutherford Hayes invited Washington children gathered at the gates onto the grounds. It has taken place every year except during the World Wars and during President Harry Truman's renovations in the 1950s.
This year, the White House distributed tickets online. Guests came from 45 states and Washington.