A Christmas Story—The Sparkly First Christmas Engagement Lights

You’d think Christmas lights have always been with us, just like Christmas. Could any of you picture Christmas without lights? But how would the children in the dark, so early on Christmas morning, find their way? The history of Christmas lights is a fascinating journey that intertwines with the birth of the modern age, when houses began to be illuminated with electricity.

Presumably, you know that Thomas Edison introduced the very first operational light bulb to this world in 1879. A few years later, in 1882, a friend of his first started using lights on Christmas trees. Edward Johnson was the first to string electrically powered lights on a Christmas tree in his New York home. His house was in one of the first parts of the city to be wired for electricity, making it a beacon of innovation and holiday spirit.

"I also have a story about Johnson that I got from a friend who was THERE." "After the first exhibition of the electric light by Edison, in New York City, there was an impromptu gala and reunion of the 'Vitascope men,' in which I was included. In the back of the handsome parlors was a mammoth Christmas tree, and it presented one of the most picturesque and uncanny appearances. There was wonderful light, blue and strong and green and wavy, shining rayless within it around as an English walnut, and revolving some six to the minute on a small pine box. In all, there were eighty lights ensconced in these little glass eggs, and they were about equally divided between white, red, and blue. As the tree revolved, with its changing colors, all the lamps went out and were relighted at every turn of the wheel. The effect was a constant twinkling of dancing colors, red, then white, blue; white, red; blue—all night.”

Edison himself began selling electrically powered Christmas lights a decade later with a specially commissioned pamphlet in 1890, perhaps the first time such an article appeared in print. It did, however, say that "There are not many forms of decoration more attractive as well as popular than miniature incandescent lamps dotted about amongst flowers or twined into wreaths or festoons for the stages of Christmas trees or conservatories." This marked the beginning of a new tradition that would soon become a staple of holiday celebrations.

The rest, as they say, is history. From that point forward, the holiday lights trend took off. Soon, they were in every household and became synonymous with the Christmas tree. Christmas lights are such a part of Christmas that it’s difficult to imagine the holiday without them. I tip my fuzzy red cap to you, Mr. Edison. You have given each of us a gift that we will treasure!

As the years rolled on, the designs and styles of Christmas lights evolved. The early bulbs were large and often fragile, but as technology advanced, smaller and more durable options became available. The introduction of the mini light bulb in the 1970s revolutionized Christmas decorating, allowing families to adorn their homes with thousands of twinkling lights without the fear of breakage. This innovation opened the door to elaborate displays that could transform entire neighborhoods into winter wonderlands.

In the 1980s and 1990s, the trend of outdoor lighting exploded. Families began to compete with one another to create the most dazzling displays, often synchronized to music. Neighborhoods became destinations for holiday light tours, where families would pile into cars to admire the creativity and effort put into these festive displays. The joy of Christmas lights became a community affair, fostering a sense of togetherness and holiday spirit.

Today, Christmas lights come in a myriad of styles, colors, and technologies. From LED lights that are energy-efficient and long-lasting to smart lights that can be controlled via smartphone apps, the options are endless. People now have the ability to customize their displays with a few taps on their devices, creating a unique experience that reflects their personal style and holiday cheer.

Moreover, the tradition of Christmas lights has transcended cultural boundaries. Many countries around the world have adopted their own unique styles of holiday lighting, incorporating local customs and traditions. In some places, lanterns are hung, while in others, intricate light displays are set up in public squares, drawing crowds and creating a festive atmosphere.

As we gather around our own Christmas trees, surrounded by the glow of twinkling lights, we are reminded of the joy and warmth that these little bulbs bring into our lives. They symbolize hope, celebration, and the magic of the season. So, as you hang your lights this year, take a moment to appreciate the history behind them and the joy they continue to bring to families around the world.