Christmas Lights
There’s nothing quite like the magical glow of Christmas lights to bring the holiday spirit to life. From intricate displays in city centers to dazzling light shows on residential streets, Christmas lights are a beloved tradition of the holiday season. Did you know that the first electric Christmas lights were invented by a man named Edward H. Johnson in 1882? Or that the world’s largest display of Christmas lights can be found at The Grotto in Portland, Oregon, where over half a million lights are lit each year? By exploring resources like books and online databases, you can learn even more fascinating facts about the history and evolution of Christmas lights and find inspiration for your holiday display.
Santa Claus and Father Christmas
One of the most beloved figures of the holiday season is Santa Claus, who brings joy and presents to children worldwide on Christmas Eve. But did you know that Santa Claus is based on a real-life figure named Saint Nicholas, who was a bishop in what is now Turkey in the 4th century? And that Father Christmas, a similar figure in British folklore, was traditionally depicted as a bearded man in a green robe rather than the red suit we associate with Santa Claus today? By exploring library resources on the history and mythology of Santa Claus and Father Christmas, you can gain a deeper understanding of this beloved holiday figure’s cultural significance and evolution.
Christmas Carols and Silent Night
Music is another essential element of the holiday season, especially for Christmas carols. From traditional hymns rooted in religious tradition to modern pop songs that capture the season’s spirit, there are countless Christmas carols to enjoy and sing along to. Did you know that “Silent Night,” one of the most famous and beloved Christmas carols of all time, was written in Austria in 1818 and translated into over 300 languages? Learning about the history and origins of Christmas carols can offer new insights into the traditions and cultural significance of the holiday season and deepen your appreciation for the beautiful music accompanying it.
From Christmas lights to Santa Claus to Christmas carols, there are endless opportunities to explore and celebrate the wonder of the holiday season in the library. By taking advantage of books, online resources, and other materials available through your local library, you can deepen your understanding and appreciation of this magical time of year. So come in from the cold, grab a cup of cocoa, and let the library guide you on a journey of discovery and joy this holiday season.
