Struggling with what costume to wear for this Halloween? We’ve got you covered here at History Unboxed with some traditional and niche history-based costume ideas!
5 Gifts for History Lovers
Did you know that we have been featured on the History Channel’s list of Holiday Gifts for History Lovers? Let’s take a peek at some of our favorite gift-giving options. These five gifts for history lovers are sure to please! Give the gift that keeps on giving with one of our gift subscriptions! You choose the timeline (Ancient History, Middle … Read More
The Story of Jack (AKA, Mr. O’Lantern)
It all starts with an Irish folktale called The Legend of Stingy Jack. So who exactly is this “Stingy Jack?” As the story goes, Jack lived in a small Irish village. He was known among the villagers as a drunk and not a very nice person. In fact, the Devil himself heard many rumors about Jack and became jealous of … Read More
The History of Valentine’s Day!
As we enter the season of rose bouquets and heart-shaped candies, I thought it’d be interesting to share the not-so-lovely story about how Cupid’s holiday came to be what it is today. The history of Valentine’s day is a bit patchy, with not a whole lot of specific details, but the story is definitely worth a share. So, to start … Read More
Sugarplums! Recipe for a Victorian Holiday Treat
In the Victorian era, sweets made of dried fruits, with nuts, spices and sugar, were special holiday treats. These “sugar plums” were carefully prepared and then put in cones of festively colored paper to hang on the Christmas tree or packaged in pretty boxes for gifts. To create a special treat, and give yourself a taste of history, try our … Read More
Our Favorite Books for Festivals of the Dead
No matter who we are, we all come into contact with death. People around the world have their own traditions to mourn and celebrate the loss of loved ones. Americans celebrate Halloween as a spooky day with monsters and creatures. Other celebrations of the dead around the world are quite different. Books are a great way to learn about other … Read More
Poetry Teatime: Saint Patricks Day
Poetry Teatime: Saint Patricks Day Saint Patrick’s Day is a wonderful opportunity to take a break with some tea, a treat, and a great poem or two. Ireland is a country full of amazing writers, so there is no shortage of people to pick from. Sometimes humorous, often melancholy, many times both, Irish poetry has something for everyone. Below, I’ve … Read More
A Brief History of April Fools’ Day
Would it surprise you to learn that April Fools’ Day, celebrated every year on April 1, has been celebrated for thousands of years in many countries and communities around the world? Today, April Fools’ Day is generally celebrated as a day of mischievous and (hopefully) harmless pranks put on by both individuals and mass media, but it hasn’t always been … Read More