President Joe Biden, the oldest president in U.S. history, is celebrating his 81st birthday in a unique and traditional fashion. On Monday, the president will participate in the annual White House tradition of pardoning the Thanksgiving turkeys. The selected stars of the show, Liberty and Bell, hail from Willmar, Minnesota, and have been enjoying a luxurious stay at the Willard Hotel in Washington, D.C.
The National Turkey Federation, responsible for the turkey selection, revealed that Liberty and Bell were given a warm welcome at the Willard on Saturday. Markus Platzer, the hotel’s general manager, shared some behind-the-scenes details, noting that the turkeys had a “red carpet welcome,” a bubble bath, and even indulged in items from the mini bar.
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Preparing for ‘the moment’
To prepare for their moment in the spotlight, Liberty and Bell have been enjoying some music, including tracks from Taylor Swift and Prince. National Turkey Federation Chairman Steve Lykken confirmed, “I can confirm they are, in fact, Swifties.”
These special turkeys were hatched in July as part of the National Turkey Federation’s presidential flock. Raised with care, they were protected from extreme weather and predators, allowed to roam freely in their barn, and had constant access to water and feed. Lykken expressed confidence that the turkeys are “absolutely ready for prime time.”
After receiving their official pardon from President Biden, Liberty and Bell will retire to the University of Minnesota for the remainder of their days. Lykken assured that they would receive top-notch care, suggesting they might even get to attend a hockey game.
President Biden’s participation in the turkey pardon ceremony marks his third time continuing the presidential tradition that began in 1947. The National Turkey Federation initially presented a turkey to President Harry Truman for Thanksgiving.
In addition to the turkey pardoning festivities, First Lady Jill Biden is set to accept the official White House Christmas tree, an 18-and-a-half-foot Fraser fir from Fleetwood, North Carolina, marking the beginning of the holiday season at the White House.
Despite the lighthearted nature of the event, Lykken emphasized its significance in recognizing the hard work of turkey farmers and those in the animal agriculture and turkey industry. The annual turkey pardon serves as a festive start to the holiday season and brings a smile to the faces of those participating and witnessing the event.
