Christmas abounds with traditions, from neighborhood carolers to lovingly decorated trees, but from where did all these rituals emerge? This enlightening program looks at the origins of the Western world's most popular Christmas traditions -- from the significance of December 25th and its relationship to winter solstice to the enchanting legend of Santa Claus and Prince Albert's 1841 unveiling of the Christmas tree.

Harry Smith
as Narrator (voice)

James Stewart
as George Bailey (archive footage)

Donna Reed
as Mary Bailey (archive footage)

Wayne Allwine
as Mickey Mouse (archive footage)

Peter Billingsley
as Ralphie Parker (archive footage)

Robert Clarke
as Fred (archive footage)

Rosemary Clooney
as Betty Haynes (archive footage)

Bing Crosby
as Bob Wallace (archive footage)

Melinda Dillon
as Mrs. Parker (archive footage)

Taylor Holmes
as Ebeneezer Scrooge (archive footage)