Celebrating New Year’s Eve at Mar-a-Lago
The New Year’s Eve celebration at Mar-a-Lago was a lavish affair, showcasing unique performances and high-profile guests. Attendees gathered in West Palm Beach, Florida, for an evening characterized by elegance and spectacle.
Exclusive Festivities at Mar-a-Lago
On December 31, a portrait of Jesus Christ was painted live on stage by artist Vanessa Horabuena, captivating the audience. The artwork was auctioned off for an impressive $2.75 million. President Donald Trump, observing the performance, emphasized the uniqueness of the event, stating, “I want to just do something very special.”
Initially, the night seemed to follow traditional New Year’s celebrations. Guests mingled while enjoying candle-lit tables and festive music. The ballroom, which Trump is in the process of replicating at the White House, showcased a luxurious atmosphere, despite a sudden temperature drop that prompted many to wear fur coats.
Notable Guests and Ticket Prices
Attendance at the event included prominent figures such as:
- Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and his wife Sara
- Emirati billionaire Hussain Sajwani
- Hollywood producer Brett Ratner
- Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem
- House Republican Whip Tom Emmer
- Former television host Jeanine Pirro
Ticket prices have risen significantly over the years, reaching $1,450 for this event. This cost included a prix-fixe meal and the opportunity to experience President Trump’s presence up close.
Trump’s New Year’s Message
While Trump was mostly serene throughout the evening, he addressed serious issues during his speech. He referenced ongoing controversies related to fraud in taxpayer-funded child care centers in Minnesota, vowing to investigate. Despite his usual confrontational rhetoric, he expressed a resolution for “peace on earth” as the clock neared midnight.
A Unique Charity Auction
The highlight of the night was the auction for Vanessa Horabuena’s portrait, with escalating bids starting from $100,000. Trump humorously acknowledged the wealth of the guests during the auction. The bids soared, culminating in a final value just under $3 million. Half of the proceeds were designated for St. Jude’s, while the remainder supported the local sheriff’s department.
As the evening progressed, President Trump engaged with the winning bidders, creating an atmosphere of celebration and goodwill. The event concluded on a festive note, reinforcing Mar-a-Lago’s reputation as a premier destination for New Year’s celebrations.
