Christmas Lore--Day 11

Candles

A candle placed in the window symbolizes the warmth and security of the family hearth and signals loyalty to family members and loved ones who are not currently at home. It is also a sign of welcome and a promise of warm hospitality to guests.

To have everything brilliantly lit was an important part of Christmas decorating. As many lights and candles as could be found would illuminate the house at night, red being the preferred color for holiday candles. If you can, imagine a time before electric lights when you were frugal in your use of candles and oil lamps. Just think how special and magical your home would be on a dark winter's night with dozens of lit candles and lamps!

When I was growing up, we always had electric candles in every window at Christmas time.  We always had blue bulbs as did many people in our community.  I'm not sure if that was a 70s fad or what the explanation was for having blue "flames", but to this day, I am fond of blue Christmas lights!