“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
December has arrived—time to deck the halls and welcome the sparkle of the season! December 1 marked National Christmas Lights Day, a celebration of a tradition that has brightened winter nights for centuries.
Long before electricity, families balanced candles on Christmas tree branches—a beautiful but dangerous practice that often led to fires. The holiday lighting revolution began in 1880 when Thomas Edison debuted the first electric Christmas lights at his Menlo Park laboratory. Even so, skepticism about electricity meant adoption was slow. It wasn’t until 1903, when General Electric released pre-assembled light kits, that households across the country could safely and easily illuminate their trees.
Holiday lights, however, have roots even deeper than Edison. Ancient cultures lit candles and fires during the winter solstice to symbolize hope, renewal, and the return of light. Today, strings of lights continue that tradition—warming long nights, lifting spirits, and celebrating togetherness across cultures and beliefs.
At your library, we hope to brighten your winter just as those tiny bulbs brighten your home. Stop by to explore books on the history of Christmas lights, winter solstice traditions, and festive celebrations from around the world. Looking for seasonal craft ideas, a family read-aloud, or holiday cooking inspiration? Your library is the perfect place to spark creativity and find a little extra cheer.
As you untangle your lights and admire their glow, take a moment to enjoy the timeless joy they bring—and let your library help make this season shine even brighter.
During the holiday season, please check your library’s holiday hours before heading out—staff and volunteers will be taking time to celebrate, too.
“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