President Joe Biden continued the long-standing White House tradition of pardoning turkeys ahead of Thanksgiving. This year's lucky birds, Peach and Blossom, were spared from the dinner table and will live out their lives at Farmamerica in Waseca, Minnesota.
The event, which took place on the South Lawn of the White House, was attended by around 2,500 people, including members of Biden's cabinet, White House staff, and their families. Students from 4-H programs and Future Farmers of America were also in attendance.
Peach and Blossom, named after the Delaware state flower, the peach blossom, were raised on a farm in Northfield, Minnesota. They were chosen for their good behavior and handsome appearance ². According to Biden, Peach weighs 41 pounds and loves to eat hot dish and tater tots, while Blossom weighs 40 pounds and enjoys cheese curds and watching boxing.
The tradition of pardoning turkeys dates back to 1947, during the Harry Truman presidency. However, it wasn't until 1989, during George H.W. Bush's presidency, that the tradition became official ³. Since then, every president has continued the tradition, sparing the lives of these two lucky birds each year.
Biden took the opportunity to express his gratitude to the crowd, saying, "It's been the honor of my life. I'm forever thankful." He also acknowledged the significance of the event, stating that it marks the official start of the holiday season in Washington.
After the pardoning ceremony, Biden and his wife, Jill, traveled to Staten Island, New York, for a "Friendsgiving" event, where they thanked members of the U.S. Coast Guard and their families for their service ³. The event was a heartwarming way to kick off the holiday season, and a reminder of the importance of gratitude and kindness.
As the holiday season begins, the pardoning of Peach and Blossom serves as a lighthearted and entertaining reminder of the importance of tradition and compassion. And who knows, maybe Peach and Blossom will even get to see the Northern Lights, a dream shared by Peach .
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