The Quick Answer
Christmas lights began as real candles on trees; electric tree lights were introduced in 1882 by Edward Johnson, a partner of Thomas Edison.
The Story
Candles on trees were beautiful but dangerous. In 1882 Edward H. Johnson displayed a tree with 80 hand-wired red, white and blue electric bulbs in New York. Electric lights became affordable in the 1900s and outdoor house lighting grew popular after that.
Legend vs. History
Edison didn't light the first electric Christmas tree himself — his colleague did.
Tell the Kids
“Long ago people put tiny candles on trees. Now we use safe electric lights to make winter nights sparkle.”
Did You Know?
Before electricity, families sometimes kept a bucket of water near the tree in case the candles caught fire.
Try This Tradition
Take an evening 'light walk' or drive with cocoa and vote on your favourite house.