On Monday, President Joe Biden carried out the White House turkey pardon tradition for the last time during his presidency, sparing two turkeys named Peach and Blossom from the Thanksgiving dinner table.
These turkeys hail from Northfield, Minnesota, and were chosen by John Zimmerman, chairman of the National Turkey Federation, from a flock of over 100,000. Peach weighs 41 pounds, while Blossom weighs 40 pounds. Their names honor Delaware’s state flower and symbolize resilience, Biden explained during the ceremony.
Addressing the audience on the South Lawn, Biden’s speech was sprinkled with lighthearted jokes:
“They tell me 2,500 people are here… looking for a pardon!”
Peach even interrupted the President with a loud gobble, prompting Biden to quip, “Peach wants to speak a little bit.”
Biden concluded with:
“Today, Peach and Blossom will join the free birds of the United States of America.”
Before their big day, Peach and Blossom enjoyed luxury accommodations at the Willard Intercontinental Hotel near the White House. To prepare them for the ceremony, Zimmerman revealed they were exposed to a variety of noises, lights, and music, ranging from rock to polka to Prince.
After the pardoning, Peach and Blossom will retire to Farmamerica: Minnesota Agricultural Interpretive Center in Waseca, Minnesota, where they will live out their days in peace.
In 2023, Biden pardoned turkeys named “Liberty” and “Bell,” joking about their newfound appreciation for the phrase, “Let freedom ring.”
With Biden’s term nearing its end, President-elect Donald Trump will inherit the tradition for the next four years, ensuring the continuation of this cherished Thanksgiving custom.
