Who has the best holiday lights on the block? In this episode, we dive into the sparkling world of Christmas decorating competitions. From their humble beginnings as neighborhood challenges to dazzling national events like The Great Christmas Light Fight, these competitions have become a beloved part of the holiday season.

Explore the history behind Christmas decorating contests, from the first illuminated trees to modern-day extravagant light displays. We’ll discuss the cultural impact of these festive showdowns, how communities come together through friendly rivalries, and some of the most impressive ongoing competitions around the world. Whether you’re looking for inspiration or just love the magic of holiday decor, this episode will light up your holiday spirit!

Stick around until the end of the episode for a special reading from The Lost Years of Santa Claus, my book that uncovers Santa’s untold adventures and his transformation into a symbol of Christmas magic. Let’s shine a spotlight on the joy of holiday decorating and the stories behind it! 🎄✨🏠

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The Christmas Song/Heaven/Slow 3/4 Song by Peter Evans, Tom Blancarte, and Brandon Seabrook - ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠CC by 3.0⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

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What does Christmas look like in the middle of summer? In this episode, we travel to Argentina to explore how this vibrant country celebrates the holiday season. From warm-weather traditions and outdoor gatherings to unique Christmas decorations like fireworks and pesebres (nativity scenes), Argentina brings its own special charm to the holidays.

Learn about the festive foods that define an Argentine Christmas, including asado (barbecue), vitel toné, and the delicious sweet treat pan dulce. We’ll also uncover the stories behind beloved holiday characters, like Papá Noel, and traditions such as setting off fireworks on Christmas Eve and celebrating Nochebuena with friends and family late into the night.

At the end of the episode, I’ll share an excerpt from The Lost Years of Santa Claus, my book that explores Santa’s untold adventures and his transformation into the legendary figure we know today. Don’t miss this journey into a sun-soaked Christmas filled with food, fun, and traditions from Argentina! 🎄☀️🍷

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Special thanks to:

The Christmas Song/Heaven/Slow 3/4 Song by Peter Evans, Tom Blancarte, and Brandon Seabrook - ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠CC by 3.0⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

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Is Die Hard a Christmas movie? What about Gremlins or The Nightmare Before Christmas? In this festive episode, we tackle the age-old debate: what is and isn't a Christmas movie? Join us as we break down the rules and criteria that define a holiday classic. Does the movie need to take place during Christmas? Is a focus on holiday themes required, or can a backdrop of snow and lights suffice?

We’ll explore fan-favorite films, controversial choices, and some unexpected titles that just might qualify as Christmas movies. Whether you’re team traditional (It’s a Wonderful Life, Home Alone) or love an unconventional twist (Batman Returns, anyone?), this episode will have you rethinking your holiday watchlist.

At the end of the episode, I’ll read an excerpt from The Lost Years of Santa Claus, the book that reveals the untold adventures of Santa and his legendary journey to becoming the heart of Christmas magic. Tune in for a spirited holiday debate you won’t want to miss! 🎥🎄✨

Contact:

⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠email⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠website⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Special thanks to:

The Christmas Song/Heaven/Slow 3/4 Song by Peter Evans, Tom Blancarte, and Brandon Seabrook - ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠CC by 3.0⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

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Who is Father Christmas, and how is he different from St. Nicholas? In this episode, we unwrap the fascinating history of Father Christmas, from his roots in British folklore to his evolution into a symbol of holiday cheer. Learn how ancient pagan traditions, like the mysterious "Green Man" and "Wild Men of Winter," influenced the stories and imagery of this festive figure.

We’ll also explore how Father Christmas differs from the saintly St. Nicholas and how their tales became intertwined in holiday lore. Discover the rich mixture of myths, traditions, and cultural shifts that shaped Father Christmas into a beloved holiday icon.

At the end of the episode, I’ll read an excerpt from The Lost Years of Santa Claus, the book that delves into the hidden history of Santa’s adventures and the stories behind his legendary role in Christmas. Don’t miss this journey into the magical past of the holidays—perfect for history buffs, holiday enthusiasts, and anyone who loves a good story! 🎅✨

Contact:

⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠email⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠website⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Special thanks to:

The Christmas Song/Heaven/Slow 3/4 Song by Peter Evans, Tom Blancarte, and Brandon Seabrook - ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠CC by 3.0⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

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How did Christmas decorations become such a magical part of the holiday season? In this episode, we explore the fascinating history behind the festive adornments we know and love. From the ancient use of greenery like holly, ivy, and mistletoe to the first decorated Christmas trees in Germany, every tradition has a story to tell.

We’ll also dive into the evolution of ornaments, the dazzling rise of electric Christmas lights, and the shimmer of tinsel that has graced holiday homes for centuries. Discover how these decorations became symbols of joy, hope, and celebration, and how modern trends continue to transform the way we deck the halls. Whether you’re a fan of vintage charm or contemporary sparkle, this episode is packed with inspiration and holiday history.

Stay tuned at the end of the episode for a special reading from The Lost Years of Santa Claus, the book that uncovers Santa’s untold adventures and the origins of Christmas magic. Let’s light up your holiday season with the history of Christmas decorations! 🎄✨

Contact:

⁠⁠⁠⁠email⁠⁠⁠⁠

⁠⁠⁠⁠website⁠⁠⁠⁠

Special thanks to:

The Christmas Song/Heaven/Slow 3/4 Song by Peter Evans, Tom Blancarte, and Brandon Seabrook - ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠CC by 3.0⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

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Everything’s bigger in Texas, including Christmas! In this episode, we’re exploring the Lone Star State’s unique holiday traditions, shaped by its rich blend of cultures. From German-inspired Christmas markets to Mexican tamales and posadas, Texas celebrates the season in style. We’ll also uncover the story behind the iconic lighting displays in towns like Fredericksburg and Grapevine, known as the Christmas Capital of Texas.

Discover how cowboy boots meet twinkling lights, why luminarias line Texas streets, and the way barbecue becomes part of holiday feasts. Whether it’s dancing under the stars at a holiday rodeo or enjoying a Texas Christmas craft beer, Christmas in Texas is a celebration like no other.

At the end of the episode, don’t miss a special reading from The Lost Years of Santa Claus, the book that uncovers Santa’s hidden adventures and the stories that shaped his legend. Saddle up for some holiday cheer—Texas style! 🎄🤠

Contact:

⁠⁠⁠⁠email⁠⁠⁠⁠

⁠⁠⁠⁠website⁠⁠⁠⁠

Special thanks to:

The Christmas Song/Heaven/Slow 3/4 Song by Peter Evans, Tom Blancarte, and Brandon Seabrook - ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠CC by 3.0⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

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Ever wonder how Christmas cookies became a beloved holiday tradition? In this episode, we’re diving into the delicious history of Christmas cookies, tracing their journey from ancient spice-filled treats to the beautifully decorated confections we know today. Learn how baking traditions from around the world—from gingerbread houses in Germany to black pepper cookies in Norway—shaped the way we celebrate with cookies during the holidays.

We’ll also explore the modern magic of holiday cookie culture, from cookie swaps and viral recipes to the art of decorating sugar cookies that could rival any winter wonderland. Whether you’re a casual baker or a seasoned pro, this episode is packed with festive flavor and history you won’t want to miss.

As a sweet ending, we’ll read an excerpt from The Lost Years of Santa Claus, the book that uncovers Santa’s untold past and the origins of his magical holiday adventures. Tune in and let’s bake up some holiday cheer together!

Contact:

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⁠⁠⁠website⁠⁠⁠

Special thanks to:

The Christmas Song/Heaven/Slow 3/4 Song by Peter Evans, Tom Blancarte, and Brandon Seabrook - ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠CC by 3.0⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

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holiday by Dee Yan-Key - ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠CC by 3.0⁠⁠

What makes something a “favorite” at Christmas? In this episode, we dive into the beloved classic song My Favorite Things—from its origins in The Sound of Music to its surprising rise as a holiday staple. Discover how this timeless tune became a soundtrack for the season, even though it was never originally written as a Christmas song.

But we don’t stop there! We’ll also explore the broader idea of “favorite things” during the holidays: cherished traditions, decorations, foods, media, and moments that bring joy year after year. Whether it’s snowy nights, warm drinks, or the sparkle of lights, this episode will leave you inspired to reflect on what makes your own holiday season magical.

And at the end of the episode, I’ll be reading a special excerpt from the book, The Lost Years of Santa Claus. Join us for a journey into Santa’s untold past and discover the stories that shaped the legend of Christmas himself. This is one of our favorite episodes—don’t miss it!

Contact:

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⁠⁠website⁠⁠

Special thanks to:

The Christmas Song/Heaven/Slow 3/4 Song by Peter Evans, Tom Blancarte, and Brandon Seabrook - ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠CC by 3.0⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Santa Claws is Coming by Ergo Phizmiz - ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠CC by 3.0⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

holiday by Dee Yan-Key - ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠CC by 3.0⁠⁠

Why do we give gifts at Christmas? In this episode, we unwrap the fascinating history of Christmas gift-giving, exploring its roots in ancient traditions, its connections to religious celebrations, and how it evolved into the modern practice we know today. Learn about the symbolism behind early gift exchanges, the story of Saint Nicholas, and how wrapping paper and ribbons became essential to the holiday season.

Whether you're a last-minute shopper or a meticulous gift-wrapper, this episode reveals the heartwarming history behind the presents under the tree.

And don’t miss the end of the episode, where I’ll read an excerpt from the book, The Lost Years of Santa Claus. Discover Santa’s hidden past and the untold stories that make him the legendary figure at the center of Christmas cheer. This festive deep dive is a gift you’ll love unwrapping!

Contact:

⁠email⁠

⁠website⁠

Special thanks to:

The Christmas Song/Heaven/Slow 3/4 Song by Peter Evans, Tom Blancarte, and Brandon Seabrook - ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠CC by 3.0⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Santa Claws is Coming by Ergo Phizmiz - ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠CC by 3.0⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

holiday by Dee Yan-Key - ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠CC by 3.0⁠⁠

This holiday season, take a journey through the world of Christmas-themed games! In this episode, we explore the timeless appeal of holiday games, starting with the traditional parlor games of antiquity that brought friends and families together. Then, fast forward to today, where we’ll dive into the digital world of modern Christmas video games, capturing holiday magic on screens big and small. Discover the games that bring joy, laughter, and a festive spirit, whether you're playing around the table or on your favorite gaming console.

From classic charades to virtual winter wonderlands, Christmas games have evolved to match the times while keeping holiday cheer alive. Stay tuned at the end of the episode for a special reading from The Lost Years of Santa Claus, the book that unveils the untold adventures of Santa and his journey to becoming the holiday icon we all know. Perfect for game lovers and holiday enthusiasts alike, this episode brings the fun of Christmas straight to you!

Contact:

email

website

Special thanks to:

The Christmas Song/Heaven/Slow 3/4 Song by Peter Evans, Tom Blancarte, and Brandon Seabrook - ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠CC by 3.0⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Santa Claws is Coming by Ergo Phizmiz - ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠CC by 3.0⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

holiday by Dee Yan-Key - ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠CC by 3.0⁠⁠