In 2009, during the administration of President Barack Obama, long-time White House carpenter—and amateur beekeeper—Charlie Brandts brought the first known beehive to the White House Grounds. The bees were treated to a feast of cherry tree blossoms, clover from the Ellipse, and fruits and vegetables from First Lady Michelle Obama’s Kitchen Garden.

White House honey was incorporated into meals for the first family and sent to local food banks. It was also used as an ingredient in official White House beers brewed during the Obama presidency, including the ‘White House Honey Brown Ale,’ the ‘Honey Porter,’ and the ‘Honey Blonde.’ 

The South Lawn is used for state arrival ceremonies, the White House Easter Egg Roll, concerts, and other events. The South Lawn is part of the White House Grounds, which include several decorative and functional gardens, a tennis court, putting green, and swimming pool. Because the White House Grounds are a national park, the National Park Service oversees their care, maintenance, and improvement.