In this exploration of Christmas heritage, we delve into the unique traditions brought over by the Moravians to America and the distinct Welsh custom of the Mari Lwyd.

The Moravians Brought Unique Christmas Traditions to America

Moravians first settled in the Lehigh Valley of Pennsylvania, where they introduced new customs and expanded upon existing European traditions.

Moravians Introduced Traditions Like Cookies and Christmas Villages to Pennsylvania

The Moravians are credited with bringing Moravian cookies, characterized by their delicious and crispy nature with a taste of raisin, ginger, and molasses. They also planted the seeds for miniature Christmas villages, which have become a festive display in many homes during the holidays. Josh Clark notes the enduring popularity of Christmas village kits, suggesting they make great gifts and can come in themes like Norman Rockwell or the Victorian era. Chuck Bryant also discusses how the tradition of electric trains running around the Christmas tree stemmed from these miniature Christmas villages, although sometimes the trains ended up replacing the villages entirely.

Moravians Expanded Nativity Scenes, Creating Room-Sized "Putzes" Dioramas

The Moravians took European Middle Ages traditions further by creating large dioramas called "putzes," a term meaning to put out or decorate, that could fill an entire room with scenes far beyond the traditional manger, including fields, lakes, cliffs, rivers, and buildings. This act of decorating came to be known as putzing, an activity distinct from the Yiddish term meaning "fool." Notable individuals known for their exceptional putzes, like Jenny Train, achieved local recognition, and their work is preserved in museums.

Putzing Became a Beloved Moravian Holiday Ritual

Putzing became a beloved r ...

Discover the vibrant history of London's River Thames and its transformation during the icy grip of the Little Ice Age, giving rise to the city's fabled Frost Fairs.

The Frost Fairs: London's Frozen River Festivals

During a span of approximately 500 years known as the Little Ice Age, from the mid-1300s to the mid-1800s, temperatures around the globe plummeted, leading to chillingly cold winters in London, colder than what we experience today. Josh Clark notes that it was during this time that the River Thames in London provided a stage for the phenomenon of "Frost Fairs," impromptu celebrations held on the frozen expanse of the river.

During the Little Ice Age, the Frozen River Thames in London Hosted "Frost Fairs"

The Frost Fairs transformed the Thames into a winter wonderland of sorts when conditions aligned—the frigid climate of the Little Ice Age combined with the architectural intricacies of the old London Bridge and the river's then-wider, shallower form.

Lively Frost Fairs: Food, Drink, Entertainment, Temporary Structures

The first recorded Frost Fair in 1564 drew Londoners out onto the ice for the novelty of walking where boats typically sailed, frequently with the added pleasure of alcohol. As the winters rolled on, each freezing of the Thames was seen as an opportunity to sell goods and indulge in revelry. The most elaborate Frost Fair took place during the winter of 1683-84, enduring for months and replete with restaurants set up under vast tents crafted from sailcloth and upheld by oars. Chuck Bryant and Josh Clark reminisce about the last Frost Fair in 1814, filled with food and libations like the pearl—a mixture of wormwood wine and gin served hot—and "mum," a spiced beer akin to a contemporary winter ale. There was no shortage of feasting, highlighted by roast ox capable of serving ...

The legacy of Vince Guaraldi's music has become an endearing part of Christmas traditions thanks to his memorable contributions to the Peanuts specials, resonating with audiences around the world.

The Legacy of Vince Guaraldi's Peanuts Music

Vince Guaraldi is celebrated for crafting the unforgettable soundtrack for the Charlie Brown Christmas special with his Jazz Trio. His soundtrack is held in high esteem and is a cherished staple amid holiday music.

Vince Guaraldi Composed Music For Peanuts Specials, Including "Linus and Lucy"

Lee Mendelson selected Vince Guaraldi to compose music for a documentary project on Charles Schulz titled "A Boy Named Charlie Brown." It was for this documentary that Guaraldi created the iconic piece known as "Linus and Lucy," widely recognized as the Peanuts theme song. HIs music became a defining element of the Peanuts specials, including the Christmas installment, signifying the immense contribution his tunes made to the series' ambiance and success.

Guaraldi's Jazz Christmas Melodies Integral to Peanuts Specials

Following the composition of "Linus and Lucy," Vince Guaraldi was enlisted to record music for "A Charlie Brown Christmas" in the spring of 1965. For this special, he not only included "Linus and Lucy" but also composed fresh tracks such as "Skating" and "Christmas Time is Here." His artistry in these pieces solidified the harmony between the whimsical visuals of Peanuts and the elegant touch of jazz, enr ...

As Christmas approaches, dealing with decorations, especially Christmas lights, can be a hassle. To keep your holiday spirits high and frustration low, consider these effective methods for storing Christmas lights.

Effective Methods For Storing Christmas Lights

The nightmare of detangling Christmas lights can be a thing of the past with these simple and clever storage tips.

Prevent Christmas Lights From Tangling With Notched Cardboard

One effective way to prevent Christmas lights from tangling is by using pieces of cardboard. Begin by taking a Christmas paper wrapping tube and cut a small notch, about an inch long, on one end. This will be the starting point where you secure the plug end of your Christmas lights. Proceed to twist the lights around the length of the tube. When you reach the end, cut another slit and secure the other plug end, ensuring the entire strand is neatly organized onto the tube.

Alternatively, you can cut a rectangular piece of cardboard and create notches an inch from each end on both sides. Secure the plug end in one of the notches and wrap your lights tightly around the piece of cardboard. This keeps your lights compact and tangle-free for the next holiday season.

Placing Each Strand of Lights In a Separate Bag Keeps Them Organized

Chuck Bryant shares his personal method, which is tailored to keep strands organized and tangle-free. He suggests laying out the strands on a couch to prevent them from tangling, then bunching up each cord. Taking it one step further, Chuck places each individual strand into a separate plastic grocery bag to ensure they stay apart from one another. This tactic not only recycles the plastic bags but also makes unpacking a breeze and allows for compact storage.

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