Trump Hosts Halloween; Mar-a-Lago Dinner, SNAP Uncertainty

On Oct. 30, 2025, President Donald Trump and First Lady Melania hosted the White House’s annual Halloween trick-or-treat on the South Lawn and South Portico that drew thousands of costumed children. They handed out full-size candy bars as the U.S. Air Force Strolling Strings performed, and Trump recreated a viral 2019 moment by placing a candy bar on a child’s head and posing for photos. Cameras also showed him autographing and handing out glossy Time magazine covers bearing his image, a move that drew online ridicule. The festivities included agency booths, donated pumpkins slated for food assistance, and appearances by military and law-enforcement families. Separately that night, Trump held a Great Gatsby–themed party and dinner at Mar-a-Lago while a looming government shutdown threatened SNAP food assistance for millions amid court orders directing the administration to use contingency funds, creating uncertainty about benefits.