“I’ve learned that you can tell a lot about a person by the way they handle these three things: a rainy day, lost luggage, and tangled Christmas tree lights.” ~ Maya Angelou, author
It’s December, time to deck the halls and celebrate the season! December 1 marked National Christmas Lights Day, shining a spotlight on a tradition that has illuminated the winter months for centuries.
Before electric lights, families balanced candles on Christmas tree branches—a risky practice that often led to house fires. In 1880, Thomas Edison introduced the first electric Christmas lights, proudly displaying them in his Menlo Park laboratory. Despite their brilliance, it took decades for people to trust electricity. In 1903, General Electric began selling pre-assembled light kits, making these sparkling decorations accessible to households everywhere.
Holiday lights are more than just a decorative choice; they hold deep roots in history. Long before Edison’s invention, people lit candles and fires to mark the winter solstice, symbolizing hope, and the return of light as days began to lengthen. Today, lights continue to brighten the darkest months of the year, transcending specific holidays to represent warmth, connection, and celebration.
At your library, we aim to light up your season with festive displays and resources to inspire your holiday spirit. Curious about the history of Christmas lights? Looking for creative holiday crafts or stories that capture the magic of the season? We’ve got you covered. The library is a beacon for exploration, whether you’re researching traditions, planning holiday gatherings, or finding that perfect winter read.
So, as you string your lights and bask in their glow, remember the timeless joy they represent. Let the season shine bright—with a little help from your library. Please note the winter holiday closure days shown below.
“The Christmas tree, twinkling with lights, had a mountain of gifts piled up beneath it, like offerings to the great god of excess.” ~ Tess Gerritsen, author