How did hanging up lights outside one’s house for Christmas come about?

Question

Does anyone know the history behind this?

Answer 1

Using electric lights (since 1917) are a natural extension of Christmas Cnadles.

Earlier in the century before Political Correctness citys and towns would decorate town squares for Christmas.

As the electrification of the country took place Lights were added,

In many towns local merchants intown would fund the decorations in hope of attracting additional patrons into town to view the lights and shop downtown. (Pre Mall era)

Electric companies also go into the act and realized they could sponsor some neighbornood decoration contests. Get people to decorate outside with lights award one or two prizes collect 100's in large electric bills... ( ah the true spirit of capitalistic christmas is comming through)

Answer 2

One day an old man came outside in a thunderstom with a key hanging off a kite. Ever since, mankind has felt the need to show off to their neighbors how many lights they can have on at one time.

Answer 3

The employees of the electric company started doing it in order to encourage their neighbors to try it as well. That way more electricity could be used over the winter months insuring higher electric bills when your bill should technically be lower.

Answer 4

...it was sometime after the invention of the light bulb, since hanging candles along wood frame houses burned down all the houses where this was tried.

Answer 5

Everyone wants the Santa Claus to visit their place...
thats why they try to make their homes lightening ...
and by the way,
i liked your answer in one of my questions.

Answer 6

I think for me it was when Clark Griswald showed how wonderful a house could look.

Answer 7

This helps expalin a little

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Christmas_lights

Answer 8

here is a website where you can find the complete meaning of crhistmas.



http://www.cgi.org/booklets/christmasfacts.cfm

Answer 9

Well...I guess it started by getting on the ladder...