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The twinkling lights and festive colours of Christmas displays have brightened our spirits, universally becoming a cherished part of holiday traditions. This joyous evolution from wreaths and candles to breathtaking displays of technological wonder tells a story of innovation and celebration.
Classic Displays is at the heart of this transformation–we are redefining holiday magic with our cutting-edge designs by merging tradition with modern technology. Join us as we explore how Christmas displays have evolved from their simple, traditional roots to the spectacular modern illuminations we love today.
The tradition of Christmas displays, evolving from homemade ornaments to stunning commercial spectacles, reflects both technological advancements and cultural shifts over centuries.
Pre-19th Century: Initially, Christmas decorations were homemade, crafted from natural materials like holly and ivy, which enhanced homes and public spaces.
Mid-19th Century: The introduction of Christmas trees in Victorian England, decorated with candles and handmade trinkets, marked a cultural shift, spreading this tradition globally.
Late 19th Century: With urbanization and the rise of department stores, commercial Christmas displays began to emerge, using elaborate decorations to attract shoppers.
1890s: Edward Johnson, an associate of Thomas Edison, created the first electrically lit Christmas tree, initiating the transition to modern lighting in holiday decor.
Early 20th Century: The widespread adoption of electric lights replaced candles, enhancing safety and convenience. During the 1920s to 1940s, outdoor Christmas lighting grew in popularity, especially during the Great Depression and post-war periods.
1950s to 1970s: Post-war, technological advancements led to more complex Christmas decorations, including animated figures and synchronized light shows.
1980s to Present: LED lighting transformed displays with its energy efficiency and vibrant colours. Modern 2D and 3D displays currently feature digital technologies, like computer-controlled lights and interactive installations.
The evolution from quaint, handcrafted decorations to today’s high-tech displays emphasizes the seamless blend of tradition and innovation shaping our holiday celebrations. Classic Displays combines these elements, creating stunning Christmas displays that bring holiday magic to life with the latest technology.
Check out a few of our classic 2D and 3D Tree and Foliage displays for a traditional look:
Since our founding in 1977, Classic Displays has been dedicated to enhancing public spaces during the holiday season. Starting with local businesses and expanding to major commercial properties across North America. What began as a small operation in Mississauga, Ontario, quickly grew into a much more significant role in the holiday decor industry.
Early Contributions: In the early years, our focus was on traditional Christmas decor–garlands, wreaths, and the classic Santa Claus setups that many grew up loving. However, as our expertise and technology advanced, so did our ambitions. By the late 1980s, we were not just supplying decorations but were also setting the trends for what a holiday display could become.
Transition to LED Lighting (2003): A significant milestone in our history was the transition to LED lighting. Classic Displays was one of the first Christmas Display companies to incorporate LED lighting into their products. This shift was not merely about following industry trends; it was about leading them. LED technology allowed us to offer our clients more durable, energy-efficient, and vibrant lighting solutions. This innovation enhanced the brightness and allure of holiday decorations, making them truly stand out and adding to the magic of Christmas festivities. The final result was more vibrant and exciting displays at a fraction of the cost due to hugely reduced energy consumption using LED lighting.
Partnerships with Major Events: In 1992, Classic Displays became a premier partner with the Niagara Falls Winter Festival of Lights, creating custom light displays that drew visitors from all over the world. This partnership showcased our ability to manage large-scale projects and produce stunning visual experiences that have since become a staple during the festival. Classic Displays also became a premier supplier to Bright Lights Windsor. Supplying the custom light displays, this event draws over 100,000 visitors annually.
Expansion of Product Lines: In 2007, we began directly importing full containers of displays, broadening our range and enabling customization at an unimaginable scale. Fast-forward to 2016–we ventured into designing and installing modular indoor Santa sets, which became a popular request in malls and large event spaces.
This journey from our simple beginnings to becoming a trendsetter in holiday decorations has reflected our deep understanding of the cultural and technological advancements that define modern Christmas displays. We have everything from classic Santa Claus displays to towering interactive displays. Check out some of our favourite go-to decorations for the upcoming 2024 Christmas festivities:
Kilkenny Bear: This beloved bear stands 2.5 metres (8.3 feet) tall, making it a great photo opportunity for any display. Bringing happiness and smiles to visitors, this warm addition is a perfect complement to any display.
Lakota Santa Display: Standing at an impressive 2.8 metres (9.1 feet) tall and extends 2 metres (6.6 feet) in length, with a depth of 15 cm (5.9 inches). It features a vibrant red and gold structure, elegantly illuminated by warm white and pure white lighting, making it a captivating addition to any festive setting.
Ithaca Archway: Our Christmas arches are interactive displays that invite visitors to walk beneath their illuminated frame, which is 4.1 metres (13.6 feet) long and 3.6 metres (11.8 feet) high. Created from aluminum and latex webbing, it offers warm or pure white lighting options, enhancing any pathway with its radiant glow.
The transformation of Christmas displays over the decades has redefined aesthetic expectations and embraced a wave of technological innovations. Today’s displays are marked by energy efficiency and a level of interactivity that was once unimaginable.
LED Lighting: The widespread adoption of LED technology marked a significant shift in holiday decor. LEDs offer considerable energy savings, longer lifespans, and safer installation options compared to traditional incandescent bulbs. Their versatility offers a spectrum of colours and intensities, enabling more dynamic and vibrant displays.
Computer-Controlled Light Shows: Another leap forward has been the use of computer technology to control and synchronize light displays. These systems can coordinate lights to music, create intricate patterns of movement, and even interact with environmental sounds or social media inputs, providing a fully immersive experience.
Material Use: We utilize materials like aluminum and latex webbing to ensure that our structures are not only visually appealing but also durable and weather-resistant. This material choice supports intricate designs while maintaining the structural integrity needed for public displays.
Sustainability Focus: We’re committed to sustainability, using materials and technologies that reduce our environmental footprint. Celebrating the festive season responsibly means our displays shine bright while keeping the planet in mind.
Here at Classic Displays, we have integrated these modern technologies into our product offerings, with a focus on blending traditional charm with contemporary functionality. Here are some examples of modern 2D and 3D displays that are perfect for city centres, malls, and event spaces:
Mosby Snowman: The Mosby Snowman is a charming snowman light display that features seating on the snowman’s globes, creating a unique photo opportunity for families. It spans 3.5 metres (11.48 feet) in width and is illuminated with warm white, pure white, and gold lights. This model showcases how modern lighting can enhance the interactive elements of holiday decor.
Spokane Reindeer: This inventive design features a moose with an open present, inviting visitors to step insight for a memorable photo. Measuring 3 metres (10 feet) in height, the Spokane Reindeer combines warm white, pure white, and red/gold lights to create a visually stunning and engaging display.
The impact of modern Christmas displays on public spaces and our holiday celebrations is as bright and sparkling as the lights themselves. From city squares to cozy mall corners, these dazzling displays have transformed mundane spaces into winter wonderlands, inviting everyone to pause their holiday hustle for a moment of awe.
Community Spirit: Modern 2D and 3D displays do more than just decorate; they create gathering spots where memories are made. They turn shopping trips into social outings and city visits into festive excursions, boosting both spirits and foot traffic.
Economic Boost: Let’s not forget the commercial magic! Spectacular displays draw crowds, and where there are crowds, there’s commerce. Businesses near these festive attractions often see a merry increase in sales, proving that a bit of sparkle can lead to a lot of spending.
Sustainability Shines: The future is green, and so are the upcoming holiday displays. We expect to see more use of sustainable materials that make the season bright without dimming the planet’s environmental atmosphere.
Interactive Adventures: As technology progresses, the potential for interactive holiday displays grows. We might see features where visitors can control light sequences through mobile apps or participate in interactive games integrated within the displays. These future innovations will invite spectators to become an active part of the holiday magic, personalizing their experience and enhancing their engagement.
From the cozy glow of traditional holiday decorations to the brilliant sparkle of modern displays, our festive journey has been nothing short of magical. As we continue to embrace new technologies, the charm of the holiday season grows even brighter. If you want to experience this delightful blend of tradition and innovation, Classic Displays can help bring your Christmas wish list to life!
Contact us today to explore our creative range of holiday displays or to craft your own custom designs. Together, let’s light up the holidays in spectacular style!
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