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!
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- Christmas 2022by e_xander on December 25, 2022
Join Christmas Past one last time in the 2022 season. It’s our annual look back at the sights, sounds, news,... read more Christmas 2022
- Backstory — Pfeffernusseby e_xander on December 23, 2022
They’re the spiced cookie with the funny sounding (to American ears) name. Pfeffernusse — or, “pepper nuts” in English —... read more Backstory — […]
- Backstory — Christmas Popcorn Tinsby e_xander on December 21, 2022
Those decorative tins filled with three kinds of popcorn have been a Christmas staple for decades. But…why? In this episode,... read more Backstory — […]
- Backstory — Panettoneby e_xander on December 19, 2022
It’s fluffy, sweet, and studded with raisins and candied fruit peel. It’s the Italian Christmas cake known as Panettone. Get... read more Backstory — […]
- Your Christmas Memories, 2022by e_xander on December 16, 2022
Cozy up with the Christmas Past family for some reminiscing! It’s one of our favorite annual traditions…where I turn things... read more Your Christmas […]
- Backstory — Classic American Christmas Musicby e_xander on December 14, 2022
Most of the classic American Christmas songs come from the 1940s. What was it about that decade that accounts for... read more Backstory — Classic American […]
- Backstory — It Came Upon The Midnight Clearby e_xander on December 12, 2022
Strictly speaking, a Christmas carol is a song that tells the Nativity story. That’s what made Edmund Sears’s song, “It... read more Backstory — It […]
- Backstory — Christmas Crackersby e_xander on December 9, 2022
They’re the festive party favors containing a paper crown, a trinket, and a joke — and wrapped in a package... read more Backstory — Christmas Crackers
- Backstory — Father Christmasby e_xander on December 7, 2022
“Father Christmas”…that’s what they call Santa Claus in England, right? Well, sort of, but there’s more to it than that.... read more Backstory — […]
- Backstory — Pantomimeby e_xander on December 5, 2022
It’s the theater experience that’s as rollicking and raucous as it is festive! And it’s also mostly unknown to American... read more Backstory — […]
