Christmas Lights in Romford

Christmas Lights in Romford are looking great for 2023 but Christmas Lights themselves have an incredible history that can be traced back to the late 19th century. It all began when electric lighting technology started to revolutionise cities, transforming their landscapes during the festive season. Before this innovation, traditional decorations like candles, lanterns, and gas lamps were used to celebrate Christmas in the 19th century.

Walking around Romford Town Centre this year it is great to see some lovely decorations around the main shopping areas.  It got the brain ticking over – when did Christmas lights first become ‘a thing’?  Was it in Covent Garden? Was it Oxford Street? Could it of been Romford in Havering?

The first recorded instance of electric Christmas lights in a city took place in 1882 in New York City. Edward H. Johnson, a close associate of Thomas Edison, set up an extraordinary display in his Fifth Avenue home. He hand-wired 80 light bulbs in red, white, and blue colors and adorned them on a magnificent Christmas tree. The sight attracted passersby who were amazed by this spectacle. The Media (Newspapers) covered the event and spread the excitement, sparking a trend of using electric Christmas lights in cities.

As electricity became more accessible, cities embraced the festive spirit by decorating their streets, parks, and buildings with dazzling displays of lights during the festive time of year. They created mesmerizing scenes by intertwining strings of electric lights across buildings and along streets or wrapping them around trees. Town centres and shopping high streets featured grand Christmas trees full with countless lights that became central attractions for Christmas celebrations.

Today, cities worldwide continue the tradition of Christmas lights during the festive season. From iconic displays like Oxford Street in London to spectacular light festivals around the globe, these shimmering and enchanting decorations add an extra layer of magic to the festive season, captivating both locals and visitors alike.

Christmas Lights in Romford can be proud of helping add to this fantastic tradition!