The Origins of Christmas Legends and Traditions We Didn’t Know

The Night Before Christmas, penned by Clement Moore, has become a beloved American holiday tradition. This classic poem, capturing the magic of Christmas Eve, was reportedly inspired by Moore’s own sleigh ride home in 1822. Despite its charm and enduring popularity, Moore, a professor at the General Theological Seminary in Manhattan, was initially embarrassed by the work.

It was first made public in December 1823 without his consent. Reluctant to claim authorship, Moore didn’t officially publish the poem under his name until 1844, as noted by the U.S. Library of Congress. Today, his enchanting verses continue to captivate families, making it a cherished part of Christmas celebrations across America.