Welcome to the White House Seder

When the sun sets on Monday and Passover begins, President Barack Obama and around 20 others will gather for a Seder meal mixing Jewish traditions with the president’s own nuances. The idea began in April 2008 when three low-level staffers on Obama’s campaign gathered in a basement sharing some matzo and Manischewitz wine. When Obama walked in and asked, “Hey, is this the Seder?” the newest White House tradition was born. This year’s meal will be held in the Old Family Dining Room under chandeliers and portraits of first ladies, the White House chefs will be preparing family recipes from Jewish participants, and stories of slavery and liberation will be told. The celebration will conclude with the traditional declaration “Next year in Jerusalem,” although on that April 2008 night, Obama offered his own ending “Next year in the White House!”