Since the 1870s, the White House Easter Egg Roll has been a longstanding U.S. tradition held annually on Easter Monday on the South Lawn of the White House. This popular event features egg rolling, music, games and family activities.
This spring, Jace Harte, a Center Grove Middle School Central sixth grader, had the incredible honor of attending. Accompanied by his parents, Robert and Laura Harte-Oblon, he traveled to Washington, D.C., for what they describe as a surreal and deeply meaningful experience.
They kicked off their adventure with breakfast at Founding Farmers DC, a well-known restaurant where senators and government officials are often spotted starting their day.
“It was the perfect beginning — sitting in the heart of the nation’s capital, surrounded by history and possibility,” says Laura Harte-Oblon.
Then it was on to the White House for the Easter Egg Roll. Jace was especially captivated by watching the United States Marines perform — a highlight that spoke directly to his heart. His dream is to one day serve in the U.S. Air Force, and the experience only strengthened that calling.
During the event, Jace had the opportunity to see Usha Vance and Melania Trump, as well as several senators and members of the U.S. House of Representatives enjoying the event with their families.
Laura Harte-Oblon recounts an unforgettable moment.
“Standing just feet away from the Oval Office in the Rose Garden, Jace looked at me and said, ‘Mom, that’s going to be my office someday.’”
The family also explored the city in one of the most enjoyable ways possible — riding scooters through the streets of Washington. They visited war memorials and took in some of the nation’s most iconic landmarks, including the Washington Monument and the Lincoln Memorial.
Timing was everything, as their visit coincided with Washington’s breathtaking cherry blossom season, adding even more beauty to an already unforgettable trip.
One of the most meaningful parts of their visit was a private tour of the U.S. Capitol, graciously arranged by Congressman Jefferson Shreve and his team.
Nate Pettyjohn, an intern from Franklin, Indiana, served as their guide. Discovering that Pettyjohn attends Emmanuel Church, the Harte-Oblons’ home church, created an instant connection and made the experience even more special.
Pettyjohn’s vast knowledge brought history to life in an engaging way as he explained the Capitol’s history, architecture and traditions with passion and clarity.
Jace was especially fascinated by the hidden details and symbolism throughout the Capitol — what he proudly referred to as the “secrets” of the building. From architecture to untold stories, every moment deepened his appreciation for the nation’s history.
The family wrapped up their adventure with bike rides through the city, picking up souvenirs and soaking in the final moments of the trip. From museums and monuments to historic restaurants and unexpected connections, Washington offers something unforgettable at every turn.
“While our trip was quick, it was filled to the brim with experiences we’ll cherish for a lifetime,” says Harte-Oblon. “More than anything, it reminded me how important it is to give children opportunities to see, feel and understand the foundation of our country.”
She adds, “Jace left inspired, proud and dreaming bigger than ever. And as a mom, there is nothing more powerful than watching your child stand in the place where history is made — and believe with all his heart that one day, he will be part of it.”
For Jace, the trip was more than a visit to the nation’s capital. It was an experience that inspired him to dream bigger, appreciate history and envision a future of service.
