As the holiday season approaches, the spirit of Christmas sweeps across the United States, transforming cities into winter wonderlands filled with twinkling lights, festive decorations, and a sense of joyous anticipation. This is particularly true in Dallas-Fort Worth, where the holiday celebrations are as big and bold as the state of Texas itself. But have you ever wondered about the history, statistics, and unusual aspects of Christmas celebrations?

Let's unwrap 15 interesting facts about this beloved holiday.

1. Historical Beginnings: Christmas was banned in Boston from 1659 to 1681 due to its rowdy celebrations. It wasn't until 1870 that President Ulysses S. Grant recognized it as a federal holiday.
2. Santa's Postal Code: Santa Claus has an actual postal zip code - H0H 0H0, North Pole. Every year, children in Dallas Fort Worth join their peers across the country in sending letters to Santa, hoping to make it onto his nice list.
3. Tracking Santa's Journey: Since 1955, the North American Aerospace Defense Command (NORAD) has tracked Santa's journey on Christmas Eve, a tradition that adds a touch of magic to the holiday season.
4. First Electric Christmas Lights: The first electric Christmas lights were displayed in 1882 by Edward H. Johnson, an associate of inventor Thomas Edison
5. Tallest Christmas Tree: Seattle, Washington, has the record for the tallest Christmas tree, measuring 221 feet tall.
6. Christmas Tree Farming: Approximately 25-30 million Real Christmas Trees are sold annually in the US.
7. Favorite Christmas Cookies: Sugar cookies and gingerbread men are the favorites across the country.
8. Largest Christmas Stocking: According to the Guinness Book of World Records, the World's Biggest Stocking is 51.35 meters (168 feet 6 inches) long and 21.63 meters (71 feet) wide from heel to toe, made in Tuscany, Italy.
   
9. Christmas Parades: The tradition of Christmas parades is widespread in the US. The Dallas Holiday Parade is the City's largest one-day outdoor event. More than 350 television stations in 159 markets have syndicated the parade.
   
10. White House Christmas Cards: The first White House Christmas card was sent by President Dwight D. Eisenhower in 1953
11. Christmas Pickle Tradition: The Christmas pickle tradition, where a pickle-shaped ornament is hidden on the Christmas tree, and the finder receives a reward or good fortune for the following year, is a fun aspect of Christmas in some parts of the US
12. Dallas - Fort Worth Traditions: Here are aa few of the most popular traditions in North Texas:
    • Dallas Arboretum’s 12 Days of Christmas: This annual event features stunning displays inspired by the classic song, with each "day" represented by beautiful life-size installations throughout the garden.
    • Fort Worth's Sundance Square Christmas Lights: The historic Sundance Square is beautifully decorated with festive lights and decorations. The annual Christmas tree lighting event is a highlight, along with live music and entertainment.
    • Prairie Lights in Grand Prairie: This drive-through light display features over four million lights, along with festive scenes and a Christmas village. It's a beloved holiday tradition for families.
    • North Park Center Holiday Decorations: North Park Center is known for its elaborate holiday decorations, including a stunning Christmas tree and various artistic displays, making it a popular shopping and sightseeing destination during the season.
    • Highland Park Holiday Decorations: The holiday lights are unlike any other spectacle; from the building rooflines to the many trees, every inch is covered in bulbous shimmer. Book a private tour to experience the Highland Park's Christmas lights!
13. Christmas Shopping: Christmas significantly impacts the US economy, with retailers making up to 40% of their annual revenue in the last quarter of the year, largely due to Christmas shopping.
14. Charitable Giving: The holiday season is a time for giving, and Americans are generous. In 2019, an estimated $427.71 billion was given to US charities, with December being the most popular month for donations.
15. Holiday Travel: Despite travel challenges, many Americans travel to spend the holidays with family and friends. In 2019, a record 115.6 million travelers were on the move over the Christmas holiday period.

So, as you celebrate this holiday season in Dallas - Fort Worth, remember these interesting facts about Christmas in the US and appreciate the rich history and unique traditions that make this time of year so special.