Christmas Lights

Next to Christmas tree it is hard to imagine Christmas without Christmas lights which illuminate Christmas trees both in- and outdoors, houses and often also whole villages and cities. Some city centers, neighborhoods and villages became very famous for their special light arrangements and are being visited after sunset only to enjoy their Christmas lightning.

Although lightning today is closely associated with Christmas celebration, lightning at the time of winter has a long tradition which started before the emergence of Christianity. However, Christians adopted the tradition and lit candles, while modern Christmas lightning has its origin in illuminated Christmas trees. Candles remained in use until the 1930’s because the electric lights were too expensive for an average person.

The popularity of electric Christmas light began to rise after the 1950's but remained mostly limited on illuminating Christmas trees. However, eventually strings of Christmas lights of all colors, shapes and forms, and recently even playing music find a way in every home illuminating eaves, doorways, porch railings, etc.

Christmas lights are also used in Christmas light sculptures displaying Christmas scenes. Christmas light sculptures are commonly hanged on windows, doors and walls but they can be also freestanding. Either way, the offer of variety of Christmas lighting is enormous although it is wise to be careful in color combination. Besides that it is also highly important to pay attention to safety and to follow the instructions for use.