Holly Jolly April: 10 Surprising Facts About Christmas!
Alright, hold onto your Easter bonnets, because we're about to bring you some festive cheer in the middle of April! Yes, you heard that right, we're diving into the merry madness of Christmas with ten holly jolly facts that will have you dreaming of sugarplums in spring. So, grab your umbrella (in case of April showers) and let's sleigh-ride into the holiday spirit!
1. Christmas Tree Origins: Evergreen Beginnings
Let's kick off this festive fiesta with the OG symbol of the season: the Christmas tree. Did you know that this beloved tradition has ancient roots? Way back when, people would deck out evergreen trees during winter festivals as a symbol of everlasting life. Fast forward to the 16th century, and the Germans were the first to bring these festive firs into their homes for Christmas celebrations. Even in April, it's never too early to appreciate a good evergreen!
2. Jingle Bells' Thanksgiving Debut
Alright, prepare to have your minds blown: "Jingle Bells," that toe-tapping, earworm of a tune, was actually written for... Thanksgiving?! Yep, back in 1857, James Lord Pierpont penned this catchy melody as "One Horse Open Sleigh," intended for Thanksgiving festivities. It wasn't until later that it slid its way into becoming a Christmas classic. Talk about a holiday crossover!
3. The First Christmas Card in Spring
Sending out Christmas cards is as much a part of the season as bunny-shaped chocolates are to Easter. But did you know that the very first Christmas card was sent in the spring of 1843? Sir Henry Cole, in an act of early festive cheer, commissioned an artist to create a card featuring a happy family toasting the holidays. April showers might bring May flowers, but Sir Henry brought us the first Christmas card!
4. The Real St. Nicholas' Springtime Deeds
Who's the real Santa Claus, you ask? Well, let's go back to the 3rd century, not December, but springtime! St. Nicholas, born in what's now Turkey, was known for his generosity and gift-giving. Legend has it that he once anonymously provided dowries for three sisters who couldn't afford to marry. A little Easter egg of kindness and giving in the springtime!
5. Mistletoe's Festive Secrets
Ah, mistletoe, the sprig of potential romance in the air, even in April! But did you know that the tradition of kissing under the mistletoe has ancient roots? Dating back to Druid and Norse traditions, it was believed to bring good luck, fertility, and protection against evil spirits. So, if you happen to find some mistletoe in April, don't be shy to steal a springtime kiss!
6. The Legend of the Spring Stocking
Hang those stockings with care, because here's a springtime surprise: the tradition of hanging stockings by the fireplace comes from a tale of generosity. Legend has it that St. Nicholas dropped gold coins down the chimney of a poor man's house, and they landed in a stocking that was drying by the fire. Looks like the Easter bunny isn't the only one leaving surprises in April!
7. Poinsettias' Bright Springtime Colors
When it comes to festive flora, the poinsettia takes center stage with its vibrant red leaves. But did you know it's named after a springtime enthusiast named Joel Poinsett? He was the first U.S. Ambassador to Mexico and brought the plant back to the U.S. in the early 1800s. The rest is history, and now we can't imagine Christmas without these bold beauties, even in April!
8. Rudolph the Springtime Book Character
We all know and love Rudolph, the red-nosed reindeer who saved Christmas with his shiny schnozzle. But did you know he wasn't always part of Santa's crew? Rudolph made his debut in a book written by Robert L. May in the spring of 1939 as a marketing gimmick for a department store. Looks like Rudolph's nose led the way to holiday fame, even in April!
9. The Twelve Days of Christmas Mystery in Spring
Sing it with me now: "On the first day of Christmas, my true love gave to me..." We all know the song, but have you ever wondered about those quirky gifts? From partridges in pear trees to dancing ladies and lords leaping, it's a Christmas carol full of surprises. Some theories suggest it was a secret code for Catholics to learn about their faith during times of persecution. Talk about a hidden springtime message!
10. Christmas Lights' Bright Springtime Debut
Last but certainly not least, let's shed some light on Christmas lights! Before the twinkling LEDs and extravagant displays, Christmas trees were actually lit with candles. Yes, real, live flames on a tree inside your home! Talk about a fire hazard, even in April. It wasn't until 1882 that Edward H. Johnson, an associate of Thomas Edison, hung the first string of electric lights on his tree. And voila! The bright tradition was born, lighting up springtime homes.
Well, there you have it, folks! Ten holly jolly facts to sprinkle some Christmas magic into your April. Whether it's the origins of Christmas traditions or the mysteries behind classic carols, there's always something festive to celebrate, no matter the season. So, keep that holiday spirit alive, even in the blooming of spring, and let the joy of Christmas fill your hearts all year round! Merry April and a happy always!