About this podcast
Behind every Christmas tradition is a story, often a forgotten one. Every year as we put up a tree and pour the eggnog, we’re continuing generations-old narratives, while being mostly unaware of their starting chapters.
Join Brian Earl to explore the fascinating stories behind the most wonderful time of the year. It’s equal parts nerdy deep dive and warmhearted celebration. Think: NPR meets Clement Clarke Moore!
Visit the Christmas Past website
- Christmas 2025
by e_xander on December 25, 2025Merry Christmas! The festive season reaches its peak today. And for the tenth year in a row, I’m here on Christmas Day to take a look back. We’ll reflect […]
- Christmas Memories 2025 – vol 4by e_xander on December 23, 2025
This episode arrives on Christmas Eve Eve. It’s our final family gathering of the season, where members of the Christmas Past family share some of their […]
- The Secret Santa of Kansas Cityby e_xander on December 22, 2025
A mysterious philanthropist spent more than 25 years handing out cash anonymously around Kansas City at Christmastime. Music in this Episode “I Knew A Guy” […]
- Christmas Memories 2025 – vol 3by e_xander on December 20, 2025
We’re at the end of the last full week of the Christmas season. Christmas 2025 is right around the corner. And today, we’re back with another family […]
- The Silent Nightby e_xander on December 19, 2025
During the Great War, the fighting briefly ceased on Christmas on some parts of the front line. The so-called “Christmas Truce” has become almost […]
- All of you on the Good Earthby e_xander on December 17, 2025
1968 was one of the most tumultuous years in modern history. But one bright spot occurred on Christmas Eve: an amazing feat that captivated the world. Music in […]
- The Hero of Dear Old Halifaxby e_xander on December 15, 2025
A tragic accident at Christmastime in 1917 gives way to a story of a heroic response, a lasting friendship, and a unique Christmas tradition. Read Walter’s […]
- Christmas Memories 2025 – vol 2by e_xander on December 13, 2025
Boy, are we right in the thick of this Christmas season. Thanksgiving was just a little over two weeks ago. Christmas Day is just a little under two weeks from […]
- None Appeared More Astonishedby e_xander on December 12, 2025
A child’s Christmas surprise for his family in 1902 became the stuff of myth and legend. Music in this Episode “Crystal Dreams” — Lite Saturation, via […]
- The Weeping Watersby e_xander on December 10, 2025
In 1953, a Christmas Eve train bound for New Zealand’s capital city met a tragic fate. Music in this Episode “Ourselves at Least” — C. Diab, from the […]
