The Lost Christmas Podcast

Christmas doesn’t end on December 25—so why do we treat it like it does? For centuries, Christmas was a forty-day season, stretching from the Nativity all the way to Candlemas on February 2. In this episode, we explore the entire forgotten half of Christmas: the feast days, folk traditions, saints, celebrations, and moments of sanctioned chaos that once filled the darkest weeks of winter. From Box...

How does Santa Claus deliver presents to hundreds of millions of homes in a single night? Many say it’s impossible—but the science might disagree. In this episode, we dive deep into the physics, mathematics, and global logistics of Santa Claus, exploring how relativity, quantum mechanics, advanced algorithms, nanotechnology, and even artificial intelligence could explain the greatest delivery oper...

In this episode, we explore the most compelling Christmas-themed novels from the past 20 years, spanning mystery, thriller, fantasy, horror, romance, and literary fiction. From snowed-in murder games and gothic holiday thrillers to dark reimaginings of Santa Claus, heartfelt romances, and magical Christmas fantasies, these books prove that holiday fiction goes far beyond cozy clichés. We discuss w...

In this episode, we explore the fascinating history of Kanakaloka, Hawaiʻi’s island-style Santa Claus, and uncover how Christmas gift-giving traditions spread across Polynesia, Micronesia, and Melanesia. From Santa arriving by outrigger canoe to church deacons acting as Father Christmas, we trace how Pacific Island cultures adapted a global holiday to fit ancient systems of reciprocity, community,...

Discover the surprising, two-thousand-year journey of the lutin, France’s iconic mischievous spirit. Once born from the Roman sea god Neptune, lutins evolved into medieval house goblins, regional tricksters, and—much later—the playful Christmas helpers of Père Noël. This episode uncovers their ancient origins, regional variations, magical abilities, and the rise of the modern lutin farceur traditi...

Journey to the Arctic to learn how Inuit families embrace Christmas, or Quviasukvik, with a mix of ancient customs and modern festivities. From winter games to community feasts, from Inuit lore to seasonal adaptations, this episode highlights the warmth, creativity, and enduring cultural identity of Inuit Christmas traditions. Also we highlight the universal winter traditions that unite all of us...

Every holiday season, millions of fans tune in for Christmas Day sports—NBA showdowns, NFL clashes, global soccer derbies, college bowl games, holiday hockey classics, horse racing and even historic one-off matchups that became legends. But how did Christmas become one of the most competitive days on the sports calendar? And what traditions shaped the way we celebrate sports during the holidays? I...

Are you ready to eat and drink through Christmas history? Go beyond cookies, roast, eggnog and mulled wine to uncover the fascinating deep cultural roots of Christmas foods. This episode is your passport to understanding how religion, colonialism, climate, and commercial ingenuity transform simple ingredients into festive flavors. This isn't just about recipes—it's about the stories, power...

Forget the usual holiday cheer and dive into the chilling world of Christmas folklore with the terrifying Karakoncolos (also known as Kallikantzaros). These malevolent, shapeshifting, hairy winter goblins emerge exclusively during the Twelve Dark Days, the treacherous period between Christmas (December 25th) and Epiphany (January 6th), to wreak havoc across the Balkans. We uncover the sinister ori...

Beyond Santa Claus and Ded Moroz, the real Arctic winter wizard is Yamal Iri, the “Grandfather of Yamal,” a localized Christmas figure from the Yamalo-Nenets Autonomous Okrug, Russia. We uncover his unique powers: not just gift-giving, but utilizing a shamanic drum made with ancient Nenets technology to drive away evil spirits and bestow positive energy. Discover why this Siberian hero wears a fun...

Why do we picture Christmas under a blanket of snow—even in places it never falls? This episode traces the history of the White Christmas story from the Little Ice Age (LIA) in 19th-century England’s icy winters to Dickens’s classic tales, Victorian holiday art, and the global impact of Bing Crosby’s 1942 hit. This episode shows you the magical mix of climate, culture, and nostalgia that shaped ho...

Season 6! Amazing, and it is thanks to all of you listeners and subscribers! Kicking off Christmas Podcast Day (Nov 1st), I'm joining with my fellow Christmas podcasters to discuss It's a Wonderful Life or at least some rendition of it. Discover the remarkable short story that inspired one of cinema's most beloved Christmas films. In this episode, we explore Philip Van Doren Stern'...

What is Epiphany, and why does it hold such deep significance in holiday traditions around the world? In this episode, we uncover the rich history, cultural significance, and timeless stories behind Epiphany —also known as Theophany, Three Kings’ Day or Día de los Reyes . Discover how this celebration marks the arrival of the Three Wise Men to visit the baby Jesus, the symbolism of the Star of Bet...

Did you know that Santa Claus isn’t the only gift-bringer during the holiday season? In this episode, we explore the fascinating world of New Year’s gift givers from cultures around the globe. From Russia’s Ded Moroz (Grandfather Frost) and his granddaughter Snegurochka to Korea and Japan and Colombia, discover the captivating stories behind these legendary figures. We’ll dive into the history, tr...

Who has the best holiday lights on the block? In this episode, we dive into the sparkling world of Christmas decorating competitions. From their humble beginnings as neighborhood challenges to dazzling national events like The Great Christmas Light Fight , these competitions have become a beloved part of the holiday season. Explore the history behind Christmas decorating contests, from the first i...

What does Christmas look like in the middle of summer? In this episode, we travel to Argentina to explore how this vibrant country celebrates the holiday season. From warm-weather traditions and outdoor gatherings to unique Christmas decorations like fireworks and pesebres (nativity scenes), Argentina brings its own special charm to the holidays. Learn about the festive foods that define an Argent...

Is Die Hard a Christmas movie? What about Gremlins or The Nightmare Before Christmas ? In this festive episode, we tackle the age-old debate: what is and isn't a Christmas movie? Join us as we break down the rules and criteria that define a holiday classic. Does the movie need to take place during Christmas? Is a focus on holiday themes required, or can a backdrop of snow and lights suffice? We’ll...

Who is Father Christmas, and how is he different from St. Nicholas? In this episode, we unwrap the fascinating history of Father Christmas, from his roots in British folklore to his evolution into a symbol of holiday cheer. Learn how ancient pagan traditions, like the mysterious "Green Man" and "Wild Men of Winter," influenced the stories and imagery of this festive figure. We’ll also explore how...

How did Christmas decorations become such a magical part of the holiday season? In this episode, we explore the fascinating history behind the festive adornments we know and love. From the ancient use of greenery like holly, ivy, and mistletoe to the first decorated Christmas trees in Germany, every tradition has a story to tell. We’ll also dive into the evolution of ornaments, the dazzling rise o...

Everything’s bigger in Texas, including Christmas! In this episode, we’re exploring the Lone Star State’s unique holiday traditions, shaped by its rich blend of cultures. From German-inspired Christmas markets to Mexican tamales and posadas , Texas celebrates the season in style. We’ll also uncover the story behind the iconic lighting displays in towns like Fredericksburg and Grapevine, known as t...

Ever wonder how Christmas cookies became a beloved holiday tradition? In this episode, we’re diving into the delicious history of Christmas cookies, tracing their journey from ancient spice-filled treats to the beautifully decorated confections we know today. Learn how baking traditions from around the world—from gingerbread houses in Germany to black pepper cookies in Norway—shaped the way we cel...

What makes something a “favorite” at Christmas? In this episode, we dive into the beloved classic song My Favorite Things —from its origins in The Sound of Music to its surprising rise as a holiday staple. Discover how this timeless tune became a soundtrack for the season, even though it was never originally written as a Christmas song. But we don’t stop there! We’ll also explore the broader idea...

Why do we give gifts at Christmas? In this episode, we unwrap the fascinating history of Christmas gift-giving, exploring its roots in ancient traditions, its connections to religious celebrations, and how it evolved into the modern practice we know today. Learn about the symbolism behind early gift exchanges, the story of Saint Nicholas, and how wrapping paper and ribbons became essential to the...

Get ready to be transported to the winter wonderland of Norway this holiday season! In this episode, we dive into the heartwarming traditions that make a Norwegian Christmas so special. From savoring traditional foods like ribbe and lutefisk to sipping on gløgg, Norway offers a feast for the senses. We’ll also explore the rich history behind these customs, how Norwegians brave the winter weather t...

In this enchanting episode of The Lost Christmas Podcast, we journey into the heart of the Alpine region to unravel the captivating traditions of Raunacht, a mystical and magical celebration intertwined with the Christmas season. Join us as we peel back the layers of folklore, superstition, and ancient customs that make Raunacht a truly unique and intriguing holiday experience. Discover the centur...