White House Christmas tree 2018: Donald and Melania Trump host traditional delivery event

Donald Trump and his wife Melania have taken the delivery of the official White House Christmas tree.

The president and first lady both took part in the annual event, which is watched around the globe, on Monday.

This year’s tree stands at 19ft and is expected to be unveiled after the family returns from Thanksgiving in Florida.

The Fraser fir, cut from a farm in Newland, North Carolina, was delivered to the front door of the White House via horse and carriage as is tradition.

Holding hands, the Trumps walked around the wagon and inspecting the tree, with the president appearing to nod in approval.

The fir will go up in the Blue Room, where every year it becomes the festive centrepiece of the building.

A massive chandelier hanging in the oval-shaped room is removed to accommodate the tree, which is trimmed slightly and anchored to the ceiling for stability.

The tree's arrival ushers in a month of holiday festivities at the White House.

On Tuesday, Mr Trump plans to participate in another seasonal rite: pardoning the National Thanksgiving Turkey.

A pair of birds named Peas and Carrots are the candidates for this year's act of presidential mercy.

The president is also expected to help light the National Christmas Tree on the Ellipse later this month.

After the pardons, the first family will head to Florida to keep their tradition of spending Thanksgiving at Mr Trump's estate in Palm Beach.

While the family is away from the White House, an army of volunteer decorators, florists and others from across the country will work throughout the holiday weekend to transform the 132-room mansion for Christmas.