What Christmas Looked Like the Year You Were Born
Updated: May 10, 2022We wish you a very vintage Christmas! Take a look back at 60 years of holiday trends, starting in 1940.
1941
These dapper young gents pose for a quick post-present pic back in 1941. Look at the height of that tree! Learn the reason why people put up Christmas trees every year.
1942
You know that feeling when you get exactly what you asked Santa for? We think this little girl captures it perfectly. These are the recipes everyone should know how to make before they turn 35.
1944
During World War II, folks kept photos of deployed family and friends close by during the holiday season.
1945
With WWII over, folks really had something to celebrate back in 1945. These girls look pretty pleased with their shiny red tricycle, too! These are the Christmas stories about meeting Santa that will fill you with the holiday spirit.
1946
“‘Twas the Night Before Christmas” was published all the way back in 1823, meaning that this poem was already a Christmas classic when these little guys started to learn it here in 1946. Psst! Here’s the surprising history behind your favorite Christmas Carols.
1947
Polka dots abound! On dresses, scarves, and wrapping, this classic was all the rage in the 1940s.
1948
We’re loving that super-flocked tree! This tree tradition really came into its own in the 1950s, but this 1948 family was ahead of the trend. This is the history behind your favorite Christmas traditions.
1949
Anyone with sisters can relate to this photo. Matching robes, matching headbands and matching stockings—looks like a Christmas card photo op if we ever saw one! Here are some of the best family photos to bring joy to your holiday season.
1950
Around the holidays, everyone gets into that festive spirit. We love that this gentleman opted for a poinsettia-patterned apron! This is the reason why poinsettia’s are the official Christmas flower.
1951
So many kids wish for a puppy at Christmas. These three sisters were lucky enough to get one! Already have a pooch at home? Here are a few secrets that your pets won’t tell you.
1952
The Christmas classic “I Saw Mommy Kissing Santa Claus” was released in 1952. This family was right on trend with their holiday card that year! Don’t miss these rare photos of what life was really like in the 1950s.
1953
When it comes to holiday traditions, we think decorating cookies comes pretty close to the top of that list. We like to spend our holidays baking up our favorite Christmas cookies.
1954
When it comes to holiday elegance, this woman has it covered, but we secretly love how her kiddos snuck in their signature cowboy style for this holiday photo op.
1955
Finding the perfect fresh-cut tree has always been a challenge, but it looks like these folks did well for themselves (even if the tree doesn’t quite fit inside). When you’re back from the tree farm, try stirring up some of our cutest Christmas tree snacks.
1956
Ride ’em, cowboy! We bet after a long day out on the range, this buckaroo would like a tall glass of milk and a cowboy cookie or two.
1958
Baby’s first Christmas is always extra special. Look at the wonder in this little girl’s eyes! Don’t miss these vintage Christmas ads from the past 90 years.
1959
No playing ball in the house! Well, it looks like this family made an exception (at least for one day).
1962
In the ’50s and ’60s, aluminum and metallic trees were all the rage. With mid-century style coming back in a big way, we can’t help but be jealous of this woman’s picture-perfect tree!
1963
During the holidays, the kitchen always seems like the busiest room in the house. Looks like it was the same all the way back in 1963. And don’t think we’re not eyeing up that perfectly golden turkey! We’re sure Grandma followed a few of our tips to get a flavorful and juicy bird.
1965
As long as there have been Christmas trees, there have been cats to knock them over. We can definitely relate to the dismayed pet owner who snapped this pic. Be sure to check out these vintage Christmas decorations that might be worth money.
1968
When it comes to Christmas trees, you may as well go big and bright! In the ’60s, many families opted for the charm of live spruces.
1969
You’re never too young to celebrate! This little girl learns about the meaning of Christmas under the tree.
1970
St. Nick hadn’t visited these boys yet, but we hope he filled their stockings with some tasty treats like these.
1971
The ’70s brought along some pretty outrageous color combinations. Can you spot the lime green carpeting under this Christmas Day haul?
1972
Cutting your own tree was hard work (and still is!). We give this kiddo props for doing it with a smile on his face.
1973
Shoppers scope out the latest toys for the holiday season. Lots to see in this storefront! Boost the nostalgia with these vintage photos of Christmases past.
1974
Some things don’t change from year to year. Kiddos still love superheroes, just like this little boy enjoying his Batman mask back in 1974.
1977
We love warm Christmas memories like this one. They make us want to cozy up with a cup of cocoa under the tree.
1978
There’s nothing like finishing off Christmas dinner with a tasty and festive dessert. Looks like this family is opting for a sticky toffee pudding, but we’ve got a long list of other traditional holiday desserts that are worth trying!
1980
As long as gift exchanges have been around, so has last-minute shopping! This man brings in his holiday haul on Christmas Eve 1980.
1983
Be it 1983, 1993 or today, we’re pretty sure almost all little girls love unwrapping a Barbie on Christmas morning.
1984
Christmas morning, we all enjoy unwrapping the latest gadgets and gizmos. Back in the mid-’80s, this camera was peak technology.
1985
Fashions come and go but the classic Claus ensembles are forever (and they look great on this 1980s couple). This is the real reason why Christmas colors are red and green.
1986
We love unwrapping something sweet on Christmas morning, just like this little girl back in ’86.
1987
One of the best parts of the Christmas season? The food! This spread looks amazing! If you’re looking to duplicate this casual, fun style yourself, explore our top Christmas appetizer recipes.
1989
Ribbons and bow ties galore! Festive holiday ensembles have been around for ages, and we love these sweet kiddos’ styles.
1990
Even the tiniest tots have a wish list. In 1990, we bet this little girl was asking for a Little Tikes playhouse.
1991
Some kids are lucky enough to get a visit from Santa right at home. We bet if you leave a few eggnog filled treats by the fireplace, Santa might opt to stay awhile.
1992
Donning festive aprons, this mother-daughter duo is ready to bake! Need a few Christmas cookie ideas for the current holiday season? We’ve got some make-ahead favorites so you can get a jump on your Christmas treats.
1993
Even the littlest kids can get involved with holiday baking! Not sure which tasks are best for your littlest bakers? We’ve got a list of tasks appropriate for tiny tots all the way up to preteens. These are the best Christmas sweaters you can buy.
1995
The ’90s were prime time for matching sibling Christmas outfits. These girlies got it right with their adorable lace and floral dresses.
1996
Who doesn’t love a good Christmas morning surprise? Looks like this young woman got the gift on the top of her list: a proposal! For the rest of us, there’s always cinnamon rolls.
1997
Patterns galore! We’re loving this adorable ’90s family. Check out these timeless holiday traditions you should consider adopting this year.
1998
If you ask us, it looks like this girl is whipping up some of our classic jam-filled cookies—just in time for Santa to come. These are the best Christmas cookies from every state.
