First Lady Jill Biden hosted the Marine Corps Reserve Toys for Tots campaign at the White House, continuing the tradition of bringing holiday cheer to children in need. According to Fox News, as she greeted the children with a warm “Happy Holidays,” they playfully responded with a spirited “Happy Christmas!”—a moment that sparked laughter among the attendees.
Biden responded to the children’s enthusiasm by highlighting the significance of love and support during the holiday season.
“Happy Christmas, yes!” Biden responded.
Jill Biden: "Hello kids. Happy Holidays!"
— End Wokeness (@EndWokeness) December 13, 2024
Kids in the crowd: "Happy CHRISTMAS!" pic.twitter.com/aPCT1kj7kO
“If you only remember one thing for the holidays, after all the wrapping paper is cleaned up, let it be this: You are loved,” she told the children. “There are so many people who care about you, from your family and your friends, from your teachers and your classmates, to the president and me.”
She ended her remarks by wishing everyone a “Merry Christmas and happy holidays,” maintaining her original inclusive message.
The interaction between the First Lady and the children quickly gained traction on social media. Many users applauded the children for their lively correction, with some calling it an “epic response” and tying the moment to the broader debate over the so-called “war on Christmas,” a topic that has sparked considerable discussion in recent years.
Jill Biden's war on Christmas: "Hello kids, happy holidays!"
— Steve Guest (@SteveGuest) December 13, 2024
Epic response from a kid: "Happy Christmas!" pic.twitter.com/fOZQCNqc6j
“We are so back,” wrote conservative Catholic group CatholicVote.
Children correct Jill Biden after she shouts, “Happy Holidays.”
— CatholicVote (@CatholicVote) December 13, 2024
Jill Biden: “Happy Holidays.”
Kids: “Happy CHRISTMAS.”
We are so back. ✝️
pic.twitter.com/zCCtKT6wDY
Former NCAA swimmer and OutKick host Riley Gaines commented, saying, “Even kids understand.”
Even kids get it 😂 https://t.co/4LOK4WHYE4
— Riley Gaines (@Riley_Gaines_) December 13, 2024
Conservative commentators have framed the incident as a welcome example of cultural pushback against secular holiday greetings. The children’s spirited response struck a chord with public figures and social media users alike, reflecting a shared appreciation for the significance of Christmas in today’s multicultural society.