One of the greatest influences on how we celebrate Christmas today comes directly from the one and only Victorian Era.

Did you know? Before Queen Victoria's reign started in 1837 when nobody in Britain had heard of Santa Claus or Christmas Trees. No Christmas cards were sent and most people did not have holidays from work. The wealth and technologies generated by the industrial revolution of the Victorian Era was monumental in changing the face of Christmas forever.

Queen Victoria and Price Albert are credited with starting Christmas traditions at their Windsor Castle around the 1840s. Prince Albert popularized decorating trees enhanced with artificial snow and candles. Furthermore, toys and sweets were usually laid around the tree or hung on the branches to be presented to special people on Christmas.

The tradition of Christmas cards was also introduced by Prince Albert. The royal children often made homemade cards for the members of the household.

The tradition of giving presents at Christmas was spread thanks to Charles Dickens, who wrote "A Christmas Carol" published in 1843. In the book, Dickens encouraged rich Victorians to redistribute their wealth by giving money and gifts to the poor. These radical middle class ideals eventually spread to the not-quite-so-poor as well.

Queen Victoria's journal depicts a family that was very fond and enjoyed the festive season. The Queen very much enjoyed seasonal outdoor sleigh rides.
Carriage makers Hooper & Co., built the Queen's own sleigh, which was painted red and gold, and lined with opulent luxurious red velvet.

The Queen often invited guests to ride her sleigh always driven by husband Prince Albert. The sleigh was pulled by a pair of horses with harnesses decorated with ostrich plumes and silver bells. The royal children traveled in a smaller sleigh, pulled by a pony. The Queen wrote various entries on her journal regarding the enjoyment of crisp, clear blue sky days while riding her sleigh.

Windsor Castle displays their Christmas trees and decorations usually from mid December until early January.

Today's Victorian Christmas decorations are crafted to reflect all the beauty and elegance of the Victorian Era.

Back to Victorian Christmas Ornaments

Victorian Christmas : a look through History

Victorian Christmas Traditions