You know the Christmas season is underway when you see the lights go up around town. Do you wonder where the tradition of Christmas lights came from? Read these FAQs about the tradition of Christmas lights to get a better understanding.

When and where did the tradition begin?

The tradition of using lights on a Christmas tree dates back to the 17th century in Germany where small candles were glued to the branches of the tree. Over the next 200 years, the popularity of the tradition spread throughout Europe and other parts of the world. Candle holders became popular in the late 1800s, and soon the candles were housed in small glass balls and lanterns. The modern, electric string of Christmas lights we know today came into popular use around 1930; prior to that, their cost was simply too high for the average consumer.

When did Christmas lights start appearing outside?

As the popularity of electric Christmas lights grew, people found more and more uses for them. By the 1950s, consumers were using their new electric strings of light on their mantles, in their doorways and, eventually, outside of their house. During the 1960s, lining the eaves of the house with Christmas lights was becoming a celebrated tradition.

How have Christmas lights advanced?

Christmas light technology has seen a few advancements through the years. From the days of candles and fire hazards, to safer electric lights to today's modern LED lights, the tradition of hanging Christmas lights in and around the home has become safer and more energy-efficient. In contrast to yesteryear's incandescent lights, which showed their age after a season or two outside, LED lights last for years and cost far less to use. Today, the holiday season is incomplete without strings of twinkling, multi-colored lights lining our homes.