68 articles Found
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Best Outdoor Christmas Decorations Without Electricity
On a bit of a budget or not thrilled with wasting energy? Non-electric outdoor decorations are still quite lovely and festive. Lights aren't always necessary!
When you're dealing with lights, there is so much to consider. You mustn't overload your grid and blow circuit breakers, make sure all cords are protected from moisture and take the risk of climbing a ladder, for starters. And even then, there's no guarantee that all of your lights even work. Often, one bad bulb will ruin the whole string and lead to at least an hour of frustration.
Keep in mind your monthly electric budget, too. Older light displays that don't have LED or some other energy-efficient bulb option can add a bit of a surprising uptick in electric usage costs. There's no point in struggling through that month's bill just to have a fancy holiday house. Be sensible and try out some non-electric decorations this year.
For example, a nativity scene will look right at home underneath the stars and moon. Besides firelight, there was no other way to see in the dark than by the guidance of celestial bodies back then. And before Rudolf came along, Santa Claus had no choice but to "dash away all" into the darkness, so know your reindeer will be fine without twinkle lights. Some nativity scenes will come featured with their own lighting, however, and flood lights are available for reasonable prices at any hardware store.
You don't have to exclusively focus on the nativity or Santa Claus, either. Even simple "winter" decorations can make your season jolly. Line your driveway or walkway with tall candy canes for a sweet entry to your home. Classic sleds can be either left plain or dressed up with garlands and ornaments. Christmas bells, nutcrackers and snowmen all bring out warm holiday feelings despite their winter appearance. Don't forget there are more cold-weather critters out there than just reindeer. Throw a polar bear or penguin into the mix. No one should feel left out on Christmas Day. -
Best Outdoor Christmas Decorations for Businesses
If you are a small business owner, then you already know that your office is kind of an extension of your house. Long days spent there turn into nights, and before you know it, Christmastime is upon us once again. But if you're never home, you'll never see the great lights you took all Saturday to put up.
Decorating your place of business, both inside and out, is an easy way for you to enjoy the holidays even when you're at work. Your customers and clients will appreciate it, too. If you can pay special attention to lights and decorations during the holiday, then surely you can pay close attention to them and their needs.
If appropriate, go with a nativity set, but make sure it isn't too large and ostentatious. Restraint is key when decorating a business, keeping in mind that everyone may not share your practices and decorative tastes. Traditional painted statues abound, but if you want, opt for white stone statues that are reminiscent of Roman sculptures or garden art. Angels are also a popular motif that allows you to express your feelings about the season without bringing the entire Holy Family into the picture. Do note that many businesses may want to tend towards non-religious decorations though, as many patrons will be celebrating holidays other than Christmas at this time of year!
So if you want stick with non-religious decor and make your business a Christmas wonderland, line the path approaching the front door with tall fiberglass candy canes. Santa Claus, elves, nutcrackers and toy soldier figures give a luster of whimsy to your business' entryway. Animals like reindeer, penguins, polar bears and more would be adorable additions to somewhere like a veterinarian's practice, or for anyone who loves animals. Imagery like angels and the Start of Bethlehem are subtle ways to slip a bit of religious imagery into your décor without going overboard (or over-sleigh, if you will.)
Keep the light of the holiday season shining bright even after office hours. Light displays and strands of twinkly bulbs can be put on a timer for passersby to enjoy, without burning all night and wasting electricity. Share your season's greetings while being a good neighbor!NOTE: Businesses
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Selecting Outdoor Nativity Sets: A Professional Decorator’s Guide
Outdoor nativity scenes are important holiday displays for homes, churches, and public spaces. Choosing one involves more than just looks; professionals consider location, materials, setup, safety, and long-term value.
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When You Start Your Christmas Planning Says A Lot About You
Have you ever wondered what kind of Christmas planner you are? Are you an early-bird enthusiast who starts in January, or are you an adrenaline junkie of Christmas planning? Perhaps you fall somewhere in between, carefully balancing festive joy with practical preparation. No matter your style, this guide will help you uncover your Christmas planning personality—so read on and discover where you fit on the holiday timeline!
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The Magic of Santa’s Sleigh: A Christmas Icon
Santa’s sleigh is one of the most beloved symbols of Christmas, sparking joy and excitement in children and adults alike. This enchanting vehicle, guided by reindeer, carries Santa Claus on his magical journey across the world on Christmas Eve. But have you ever wondered about the origins of Santa’s sleigh and how you can bring its festive charm into your holiday celebrations?
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How Long Should You Leave Your Christmas Decorations Out?
As the holiday season wraps up, many families start wondering: how long should we keep our Christmas decorations up? While there’s no hard-and-fast rule, it’s a decision influenced by traditions, personal preferences, and practical factors. Let’s take a cheerful look at the options to help you decide when to pack up the tinsel and lights.
What Tradition Says
For those who love to honor time-honored traditions, the Twelfth Night is a popular milestone. This marks the end of the Twelve Days of Christmas, falling on January 5th or 6th depending on whether Christmas Day is included in the count. Observing this date ties back to Christian customs and signals the close of the holiday season.
Some traditions stretch the timeline a bit further:
- Epiphany (January 6th): Celebrates the visit of the Magi and is often seen as the true conclusion of Christmas festivities.
- Candlemas (February 2nd): In some Christian traditions, decorations remain up until this day, marking the presentation of Jesus at the temple.
What Works for Your Family
Outside of tradition, many families adapt their timing to what works best for their schedules and lifestyles:
- Mid-January: For many, the first or second weekend after New Year’s is the perfect time to tackle the cleanup without feeling rushed.
- When the tree decides: If you have a real Christmas tree, its condition can dictate the timeline. A dry, needle-shedding tree is a clear sign it’s time to say goodbye.
- Keeping the glow alive: In colder climates, leaving lights up a little longer can brighten those long, dark winter nights, adding a cozy touch to January.
What About Outdoor Decorations?
Outdoor lights and lawn displays, such as a jumbo Santa sleigh with reindeer, can be a bit trickier to remove, especially if you’re dealing with snow, ice, or freezing temperatures. Many people wait for a dry, mild day to safely bring everything in.
However, leaving outdoor decorations up too long could have some drawbacks:
- Weather damage: Prolonged exposure to harsh conditions can wear down your displays.
- Neighborhood harmony: Check any HOA rules or community standards for seasonal decoration timelines to avoid any awkward conversations with neighbors.
Packing Smart for Next Year
Whenever you decide to pack up, a little organization now will save you a lot of hassle next holiday season:
- Sort and label: Group ornaments, garlands, and lights into clearly labeled containers for easy unpacking next year.
- Inspect for damage: Toss broken items or make repairs so everything is ready to use again.
- Store safely: Use padded boxes for fragile items and avoid stacking heavy bins on top of delicate decorations.
The Final Answer? Whatever Brings You Joy
At the end of the day, there’s no “right” time to take down your Christmas decorations. Whether you follow tradition, prioritize convenience, or simply enjoy keeping the holiday spirit alive a little longer, what matters most is what makes you and your family happiest.
So, relax, sip some hot cocoa, and enjoy the twinkle of your lights for as long as you like!
A Fun Look Ahead: Plan Now for the Holidays of Tomorrow
As you’re tidying up this year’s decorations, why not start dreaming about the future? Planning now for the 2025 holiday season may feel far away, but a little early preparation can help you create a truly magical display.
Investing in heritage-quality decorations is a wonderful way to add lasting charm to your celebrations. Handcrafted ornaments, heirloom wreaths, and elegant lighting not only stand the test of time but also turn into cherished family traditions.
Here are some tips for planning ahead:
- Shop smart: Take advantage of off-season sales to snag high-quality decorations at great prices.
- Find unique treasures: Explore artisan shops and vintage markets for one-of-a-kind pieces.
- Start a wish list: Make note of decorations or themes you’d like to try, so you’re ready when the time comes.
By thinking ahead, you’ll have everything you need to create a holiday season that’s not just beautiful, but full of meaning. Start planning now, and the 2025 holidays might just be your most memorable yet!
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The History of the Christmas Reindeer
During Christmas time we’re surrounded by the tale of Santa and his trusted reindeer. Stories such as, “T’was the Night Before Christmas,” and others like it have embedded Santa and his reindeer into Christmas culture. Often, children have memorized the song “Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer,” by the time they’re five. We have fostered a Christmas culture heavily reliant on the concept of the Christmas reindeer, however, few know the reindeer’s true history.
Reindeer Origins
Reindeer are native to Northern Europe and Asia. Reindeer who live in North America are referred to as caribou. The Sami (of Northern Scandinavia) and Nenet (of Russia’s arctic) are both indigenous groups who rely heavily on reindeer for a food source. Today, ten percent of the Sami population still herds reindeer. The majority of the reindeer population resides in Kautokeino and Karasjok Norway. Still today, it is a common practice for the Samis to herd the reindeer to the mountains for the cold winters.
Reindeer First Come to America
In the mid-1800s an indigenous group of people called the Inuit inhabited Northern Canada, Greenland, and Alaska. The members of this group were starving due to the commercial hunting of their main food source, whales. A missionary named Sheldon Jackson decided the solution was to transport reindeer to Alaska from Norway. In 1898, the United States government-funded the transfer of six hundred reindeer and over one hundred trained herders to the Alaskan shores.
Reindeer Enter the World of Christmas Marketing
Carl Lomen is credited with marketing reindeer for the sale of their fur and meat. His goal was to make reindeer meat a staple among the American household. Lomen’s efforts to promote reindeer hit their peak when he partnered with the department store Macy’s. In 1926, Macy’s held a parade led by a Santa on a sleigh being pulled by reindeer. This stunt sparked a national passion for Santa and his reindeer which translated into more parades of this nature and an influx of marketing opportunities.
Reindeer First Appear in Christmas Culture
In 1821, the tale of reindeer guiding Santa on his sleigh first appeared in children’s literature. This anonymously published poem titled “Old Santeclaus With Much Delight,” tells of Santa being pulled by a singular reindeer. The line reads, “His reindeer drives this frosty night.” The poem also includes eight illustrations, one famously depicting an image of Santa taking off behind his one reindeer.
One Reindeer Becomes Eight
In 1823, only two years after the aforementioned “ Old Santeclaus With Much Delight” was published, the famous poem titled “A Visit from Saint Nicholas” by Clement C Moore took off in popularity. Better known as “Twas the Night Before Christmas,” this story is credited with first telling the tale of Santa being pulled on his sleigh by eight reindeer. Soon after its publishing, the story became widely popular and the eight reindeer model was nationally recognized and adored.
The Short-Lived Ten Reindeer
In 1902, a piece of literature named “ The Life and Adventures of Santa Claus,” written by L Frank Baum was released. This story included a list of the names of Santa’s reindeer, all differing from those used in “Twas the Night Before Christmas.” Baum listed ten reindeer names that rhymed in unison. These names included Flossie and Glossie, Racer and Pacer, and Ready and steady. “The names used in “Twas the Night Before Christmas” had already grown into extensive popularity that at this point, no alternative reindeer names would be accepted by the general public.
The Late Rudolph
We all know the story of Rudolph, the socially rejected reindeer who ended up saving Christmas by guiding Santa with his glowing red nose. In 1939, Robert L May first released this story for a promotion by the Montgomery Ward store chain. These books were handed out in their stores during Christmas time. This story became a Christmas classic and soon Rudolph was accepted as Santa’s ninth reindeer.
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Christmas Night Inc. debuts new enormous Nutcracker display
Amsterdam, NY – Christmas Night Inc., global retailer of nativity scenes and Christmas displays, announced the debut of their 12-foot Christmas Nutcracker king display. As their largest product to date, this decoration is sure to make a huge impression this holiday season.
Made of the most durable, chip resistant fiberglass construction typically used for manufacturing boats, this breathtaking 12-foot Nutcracker is ideal for large spaces including estate houses, bank halls and hotel lobbies. Designed for both indoor and outdoor use, these Nutcrackers are painted in sunlight resistant paint and built to last for years to come.
“Our Nutcrackers are exclusively designed, fully detailed, colorful, expressive, and very beautiful,” said Claire Henderson, co-owner of Christmas Night Inc. “Manufactured in the Philippines, the 12-foot Nutcrackers are then shipped by ocean container to our warehouse in New York.”
Christmas Night Inc. anticipates that large retailers, shopping malls and cities will use the 12-foot Nutcracker for their Christmas displays. However, these Nutcrackers are suitable for both commercial and residential use.
This massive 12-foot Nutcracker king is now available for purchase online at www.christmasnightinc.com/c123/Huge-Nutcracker-King-12-ft-H-p1689.html, or by calling 1-888-900-2073.
About Christmas Night Inc.
Claire and Don Henderson opened Christmas Night Inc. in 1999, to fill a consumer need for complete nativity sets, holy families and large outdoor Christmas figures, including Santa, snowmen, toy soldiers, and nutcrackers. Located in Amsterdam, NY, Christmas Night Inc. is pleased to provide these seasonal items to those who celebrate and enjoy the spirit of Christmas.
