WIREDGOV

An English Heritage survey asks participants when they put up their festive lights, with 77 per cent agreeing Christmas is not complete without them.

Most British people put up their Christmas lights on 1 December, according to a new English Heritage survey.

Modern celebrations begin much earlier than they did for medieval people, who wouldn't start decorating their homes until Christmas Eve. The Tudors began even later, waiting until New Year's Day to exchange gifts.

The survey also reveals that 77 per cent feel that Christmas is not complete without lights.

This December English Heritage is combining contemporary lighting with history in a series of new after-dark Enchanted events. For nine evenings only from 15 - 23 December 2017, visitors can experience unique lighting designs at six historic places, including Osborne, Kenilworth Castle and Eltham Palace.

But lighting at Christmas isn't a modern phenomenon.

English Heritage Historian Dr Michael Carter said throughout history, humans have sought light to lift their spirits in winter.

'The use of light to celebrate Christmas and the midwinter festivals which preceded it is a tradition which goes back thousands of years. This reminder of the prospect of warmth and growth in the darkest days of winter was vitally important.

'The date of these celebrations has varied over the centuries, but it's clear that in the 21st century we're more impatient for Christmas to begin than many of our ancestors.'

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