Christmas Unwrapped: The History of Christmas

Overview

Christmas abounds with traditions, from neighborhood carolers to lovingly decorated trees, but from where did all these rituals emerge? This enlightening program looks at the origins of the Western world's most popular Christmas traditions -- from the significance of December 25th and its relationship to winter solstice to the enchanting legend of Santa Claus and Prince Albert's 1841 unveiling of the Christmas tree.

Details

Cast

Harry Smith

Narrator (voice)

James Stewart

George Bailey (archive footage)

Donna Reed

Mary Bailey (archive footage)

Wayne Allwine

Mickey Mouse (archive footage)

Peter Billingsley

Ralphie Parker (archive footage)

Robert Clarke

Fred (archive footage)

Rosemary Clooney

Betty Haynes (archive footage)

Bing Crosby

Bob Wallace (archive footage)

Melinda Dillon

Mrs. Parker (archive footage)

Taylor Holmes

Ebeneezer Scrooge (archive footage)

Robert Hyatt

Tiny Tim (archive footage)

Todd Karns

Harry Bailey (archive footage)

Danny Kaye

Phil Davis (archive footage)

Darren McGavin

Mr. Parker (archive footage)

Vera-Ellen

Judy Haynes (archive footage)

Patrick Whyte

Bob Cratchit (archive footage)

Alan Young

Scrooge McDuck (archive footage)