On December 31, 2025, President Donald Trump hosted his annual extravagant New Year’s Eve gala at Mar-a-Lago, his private club in Palm Beach, Florida. The event offered the public a rare glimpse into the opulent celebration, blending glamour, politics, and a high-profile charity auction as the nation welcomed 2026.
President Trump and First Lady Melania Trump arrived just before 9 p.m., walking a black carpet emblazoned with “Happy New Year Mar-a-Lago” in gold letters. Melania stunned in a shimmering silver full-length gown, while the president paused to speak briefly with reporters. When asked about his New Year’s resolution for 2026, Trump replied simply, “world peace”—a sentiment he echoed as “peace on Earth” in some accounts—before dodging questions on foreign policy issues, such as a reported CIA operation in Venezuela or potential U.S. involvement in Ukraine.
Inside the Donald J. Trump Grand Ballroom, Trump addressed guests, touting the successes of his second non-consecutive term’s first 11 months. He highlighted economic gains, claiming the U.S. was “taking in hundreds of millions of dollars in tariffs” and promising $1,776 “warrior dividend” checks to military service members—a symbolic nod to America’s founding year. “We’re doing great as a country. We’re back. We’re strong,” Trump declared, adding that progress had happened “faster than anybody thought possible.”
Notable attendees included former Trump adviser Rudy Giuliani and Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem. Reports also mentioned international figures like Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, underscoring the event’s mix of political and global influence.
The evening’s highlight was a dramatic charity auction led by Trump himself. Christian worship artist Vanessa Horabuena took the stage, rapidly painting a portrait of Jesus Christ’s face on a large black canvas in about 10 minutes as worship music played. Trump praised her as “one of the greatest artists anywhere in the world,” noting her ability to create detailed works quickly.
Bidding started at $100,000. When a bidder reached $1 million, Trump quipped that the person was “the biggest guy on Wall Street.” The painting ultimately sold for $2.75 million, with proceeds benefiting St. Jude Children’s Hospital and a sheriff’s department (possibly the Palm Beach Sheriff’s Office, though not specified).
The gala capped a busy day for Trump on social media, where he posted over 10 times on topics ranging from election fraud allegations in states like Minnesota and California to praise for Border Patrol agents, many of whom he noted are of Hispanic heritage. He also announced the withdrawal of the National Guard from cities like Chicago, Los Angeles, and Portland, warning of potential crime surges.
Trump’s Mar-a-Lago New Year’s Eve parties have long been a tradition, drawing politicians, celebrities, and allies for a night of luxury. This year’s event combined festive splendor with the president’s reflections on national strength, charity, and his hopes for global peace in 2026.
