Why do people put Christmas lights up on their houses?

Answer

From my understanding, similar to the origin of bringing trees into the house during the winter solstice to liven up the dreary winter, lights or candles were lit around the home to keep it cheery and bright. During the holiday times especially, when people were travelling to see others, candles were put around the outside of the house as a marking for travellers weary from their trek.

Answer

Before electricity, when there would be absolutely no lights within a house after bedtime, people would place lighted candles on the windowsill for travelers. This became the tradition of placing candles out on Christmas Eve to show St. Nick which houses had children.

Answer

The tradition of Christmas lights acutually originates with ancient peoples that feared the long, dark days of winter. During Winter Solstice time, large bonfires were kept burning the "lure" the sun back. This tradition continued throughout the ages but, like many ancient traditions, it evolved and mutated so much that its origin is not readily clear.

Answer

If you want info on christmas and why you put christmas lights go to www.watchtower.org

Improve Answer Discuss the question "Why do people put Christmas lights up on their houses?" Watch Question

First answer by Karyn. Last edit by a a. Question popularity: 189 [recommend question]

Also see on Answers.com

Research your answer:

Answers.com > Wiki Answers > Categories > History Politics and Society > Holidays and Traditions > Christmas > Why do people put Christmas lights up on their houses?

Our contributors said this page should be displayed for the questions below. (Where do these come from)
If any of these are not a genuine rephrasing of the question, please help out and edit these alternates.
What do people do on christmas day?  Why do you put up Christmas lights?  How do people decorates on christmas?  What is the orgin of christmas lights?  Why do people put up christmas lights?