Christmas
First National Christmas Tree
On December 24, 1923, President Calvin Coolidge lit the first national Christmas tree outside the White House.
Launch of Apollo 8
On December 21, 1968, Apollo 8 launched from Kennedy Space Center.
Happy National Poinsettia Day!
On December 12, 2002, the US first celebrated National Poinsettia Day, honoring two of the men who helped make these festive plants popular in the US – Joel Roberts Poinsett and Paul Ecke, Jr.
Debut of A Charlie Brown Christmas
On December 9, 1965, A Charlie Brown Christmas first aired on television.
Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer
On December 6, 1964, Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer first premiered on television.
Sherman’s March to the Sea
After burning Atlanta, Union General William Tecumseh Sherman embarked on his month-long March to the Sea on November 15, 1864.
First Traditional Christmas Stamp
On November 1, 1966, the US Post Office issued its first Traditional Christmas stamp, picturing the Madonna and Child with Angels, by Hans Memling.
Death of Irving Berlin
On September 22, 1989, legendary composer Irving Berlin died in New York City at the age of 101.
First Christmas Seals
On December 7, 1907, the first Christmas Seals went on sale.