Christmas Unwrapped: The History of Christmas (1997)

Christmas Unwrapped: The History of Christmas

1997

Documentary History

Synopsis

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.

Credits

Cast

Bing Crosby as Bob Wallace (archive footage)

Donna Reed as Mary Bailey (archive footage)

Harry Smith as Narrator (voice)

James Stewart as George Bailey (archive footage)

Melinda Dillon as Mrs. Parker (archive footage)

Peter Billingsley as Ralphie Parker (archive footage)

Robert Clarke as Fred (archive footage)

Rosemary Clooney as Betty Haynes (archive footage)

Taylor Holmes as Ebeneezer Scrooge (archive footage)

Wayne Allwine as Mickey Mouse (archive footage)