Celebrating Twelfth Night with the Smithsonian Libraries

The History of Twelfth Night Celebrations

Twelfth Night is a Christian festival observed as the last day of the 12 Days of Christmas. Dating back to the middle ages, Twelfth Night marked the end of the Christmas season and the beginning of Epiphany. During the Elizabethan era, Twelfth Night became a popular holiday celebrated with lavish parties, plays, and feasts.

Smithsonian Libraries’ Twelfth Night Traditions

The Smithsonian Libraries celebrates Twelfth Night with Christmas traditions, including Santa Claus, carols, decoration themes, and charity. Each year, the Smithsonian Libraries decorate their halls with beautiful decorations based on different themes. The library has displayed a “Winter Wonderland” theme with snowflakes, trees, and delicate ornaments in past years. Another year, the library’s decorations took on a “Victorian Christmas” theme, featuring elaborate wreaths, poinsettias, and other traditional Christmas decorations.

In addition to the beautiful decorations, the Smithsonian Libraries encourage charitable giving as part of their Twelfth Night celebration. Non-perishable food items and holiday gifts for children are collected and donated to local charities, making Twelfth Night a time for giving back to the community.

Another popular tradition at the Smithsonian Libraries’ Twelfth Night celebration is the singing of Christmas carols. Visitors are invited to join in and sing along to their favorite holiday tunes as they enjoy the library’s festive atmosphere.

While Santa Claus is not a traditional part of Twelfth Night celebrations, the Smithsonian Libraries welcome him as part of their festivities. Children can take pictures with Santa Claus and tell him their Christmas wishes.

The Smithsonian Libraries’ Twelfth Night celebration is an excellent opportunity for visitors to experience the joy and warmth of the holiday season. With beautiful decorations, charitable giving, Christmas carols, and Santa Claus, there is something for everyone to enjoy.

In conclusion, Twelfth Night is an essential Christian festival observed for centuries. The Smithsonian Libraries celebrates this holiday with various Christmas traditions, including beautiful decorations based on different themes, charitable giving, Christmas carols, and Santa Claus. It is a time to come together with family and friends, enjoy the festive atmosphere, and give back to the community.