The Origins of Twelfth Night and Christmas Ornaments
Twelfth Night, also known as Epiphany, marks the end of the Christmas season and the beginning of the Epiphany season in the Western Christian Church. It falls on January 6th and is celebrated in many cultures with feasting, singing, and gift-giving. One of the most beloved traditions of Twelfth Night is the decoration of Christmas trees and the hanging of Christmas ornaments.
The tradition of decorating Christmas trees and hanging ornaments dates back to the 16th century in Germany. The first recorded use of a Christmas tree dates back to 1570, while the first recorded use of Christmas ornaments dates back to 1605. These ornaments were made of fruit, nuts, and other natural materials.
Over time, glass ornaments became popular in Europe and North America. Glass ornaments were delicate and expensive and often passed down as family heirlooms. Today, Christmas ornaments come in all shapes, sizes, and materials and are a beloved part of holiday traditions worldwide.
The Smithsonian Libraries and Twelfth Night
The Smithsonian Libraries hold a vast collection of materials related to holiday traditions, including Twelfth Night and Christmas ornaments. One notable item in the collection is “The Book of Christmas” by Thomas K. Hervey, published in 1836. This book contains a detailed account of Twelfth Night celebrations, including the hanging of Christmas ornaments.
The collection also includes several historical books and manuscripts related to the history of Christmas ornaments. One such item is “A History of Christmas Ornaments” by Robert Brenner, published in 1893. This book traces the evolution of Christmas ornaments from their earliest origins to the present day.
In addition to books and manuscripts, the Smithsonian Libraries about Twelfth Night also hold several artifacts related to holiday traditions. One such artifact is a collection of antique glass Christmas ornaments dating back to the 19th century. These ornaments provide a fascinating glimpse into the history of Christmas ornamentation and the evolution of holiday traditions over time.
The Intersections of Passover and Spring Break with Holiday Traditions
While Twelfth Night and Christmas ornaments are certainly beloved holiday traditions, they are not the only ones. Other holidays, such as Passover and Spring break, also intersect with traditions.
Passover is a Jewish holiday that commemorates the liberation of the Israelites from slavery in ancient Egypt. It is celebrated in the spring and typically involves a Seder meal, which includes reading the Haggadah and eating traditional foods such as matzo and bitter herbs.
Spring break, on the other hand, is a secular holiday celebrated by many Americans in March or April. It typically involves travel, relaxation, and partying and is a popular time for college students to take a break from their studies.
Despite their different origins and purposes, both Passover and Spring Break intersect with holiday traditions. Passover, for example, involves sharing food and the coming together of family and friends, much like other holidays such as Thanksgiving and Christmas. Spring break consists of a break from routine and a time to recharge and relax, which can also be seen as a holiday tradition.In conclusion, the history of Christmas ornaments and their connection to Twelfth Night is fascinating. The Smithsonian Libraries hold a wealth of materials related to this subject and other holiday traditions. By examining these materials, we can better understand how holiday traditions have evolved and continue to intersect with our lives today.