Presidential Holiday Parties Throughout History

A Very Drunk Christmas

George Washington, our first president, is remembered as a kind, pious, and humble military man. He and his wife, Martha, loved Christmastime and always made it a big affair with lots of entertainment and music.

Interestingly, during a time when slave labor was common and slave owners could generally treat their slaves however they wished, Washington always made sure that his slaves could enjoy the holiday season as well (round of applause for him). In one contract, he gave his slave a Christmas bonus and allowed him to take four days and four nights off to get as drunk as he wanted.

Andrew’s Crazy Party

Think about the craziest party you have ever attended in your life. There was probably loud music involved, plenty of people dancing and shouting, and things being broken on accident. Andrew Jackson took it to the next level.

There’s a popular historical rumor that Jackson partied it up after being elected. It is said that he and his supporters held a party at the White House where they celebrated by smashing dishes and jumping on the furniture in their muddy boots. Evidently, this stern looking guy knew how to party. This isn’t a holiday party per say, but we do have Presidents Day.