Department 56 Christmas Vacation: Your Ultimate Guide to Holiday Villages & Collecting

Imagine a perfect winter world. Snow covers tiny houses. Lights glow in every window. People ice skate on a frozen pond. This is not a real town. This is a Department 56 Christmas village. For over 40 years, these collectible villages have brought holiday magic into homes. They turn a table or shelf into a snowy vacation scene. This guide will show you everything about Department 56 Christmas vacations. You will learn about history, collections, and how to start your own. Let's begin a journey into a miniature winter wonderland.

What is Department 56? The Story Behind the Magic

Department 56 is a famous American company. It started in 1976. The company is known for ceramic holiday villages and lighted houses. The name comes from the original location at Dayton's department store. It was in room 56. The first pieces were simple ceramic houses. They were part of the "Snow Village" collection. Today, it is a global brand. Collectors love the detailed scenes and quality.

The idea was to create a nostalgic Christmas. The villages show small-town America from the past. Think of the 1940s and 1950s. Each piece tells a story. You can see people shopping, caroling, or building snowmen. The company uses skilled artists and designers. They make sure every detail is perfect. From the paint on the windows to the texture of the snow, everything matters.

The Birth of a Collecting Phenomenon

In the late 1970s, Christmas decorating changed. People wanted more than just a tree. They wanted to create a scene. Department 56 answered this need. The first lighted village buildings were a huge success. They plugged into a wall outlet. A small light bulb inside made the windows glow. It looked like people were home for the holidays. This created a warm, inviting feeling. Collecting these pieces became a hobby for many families.

The company grew quickly. They added new collections. Each collection had a different theme. Some were based on famous stories. Others showed different countries or time periods. This variety helped attract more collectors. Today, there are thousands of different pieces. Some are very rare and valuable. The community of collectors is strong and passionate. They share tips and display ideas online and at events.

Exploring the Major Department 56 Christmas Village Collections

Department 56 has many village lines. Each line has a unique style and story. Knowing them helps you choose what you like. Here are the main collections for Christmas.

1. Snow Village: The Original Classic

Snow Village is the first and most popular collection. It shows classic American small towns. The scenes are from the early to mid-20th century. You will find cozy cottages, bustling main streets, and festive town squares. The style is warm and nostalgic. It reminds people of simpler times. Common pieces include:

Residential Homes: Small houses with glowing windows and chimneys.
Commercial Buildings: Shops, bakeries, and post offices.
Landmarks: Churches, schools, and town halls.
Accessories: People, trees, cars, and streetlamps.

This collection is perfect for beginners. The pieces are widely available. They create a traditional Christmas scene. Many people start with a few Snow Village houses. Then they expand their display every year. It is a family tradition for many.

2. North Pole Series: Santa's Magical Home

This collection is all about Santa Claus and his workshop. It is a fantasy land at the North Pole. The buildings are whimsical and colorful. You can see Santa's house, the toy factory, and the reindeer stable. Elves are busy making toys. The style is fun and magical. It is great for children and the young at heart. Key pieces include:

Santa's Workshop (the most famous piece).
Mrs. Claus's Kitchen.
The Elf Clubhouse.
The Reindeer Barn.

This series lets you build Santa's entire village. You can create the journey from the toy shop to the sleigh launch. It adds a layer of fantasy to your Christmas display. The colors are often brighter than Snow Village. The designs are more playful.

3. Dickens' Village: A Victorian Christmas

This collection is based on the stories of Charles Dickens. It shows London in the 1800s. Think of "A Christmas Carol." The buildings have Victorian architecture. The scenes show cobblestone streets and old-fashioned lampposts. The mood is historic and literary. It feels like stepping into a classic book. Notable pieces include:

Scrooge & Marley's Counting House.
The Olde Curiosity Shop.
Bob Cratchit's House.
The Fezziwig's Warehouse.

This series is for lovers of history and literature. The details are incredible. You can see tiny signs and period-appropriate clothing. It tells a story of redemption and holiday spirit. The collection is very popular with serious collectors.

4. Alpine Village: European Mountain Charm

Alpine Village brings the Swiss Alps to your home. The buildings look like Swiss chalets. They have steep roofs and wooden balconies. The setting is a snowy mountain village. You can imagine skiing and enjoying hot chocolate. The style is cozy and European. It is different from the American-themed villages. Standout pieces include:

Mountain Chalets with detailed woodwork.
Ski Lodges and equipment shops.
Gondola stations and cable cars.
Accessories with skiers and snowshoers.

This collection offers a winter sports theme. It is perfect if you love a European Christmas. The architecture is charming and distinct. It mixes well with other collections for a diverse display.

5. New England Village: Coastal Holiday Spirit

This series captures the feel of coastal New England. Think of lighthouses, harbors, and Cape Cod-style houses. The colors are often blues, whites, and grays. It has a nautical theme. You can see fishing boats and seaside shops. The style is crisp and coastal. It is a refreshing change from inland villages. Popular pieces include:

Lighthouses (a favorite for many).
Clapboard houses with widow's walks.
Harbor shops and boat houses.
Accessories with sailors and fishermen.

This village is ideal for those who love the ocean. It reminds people of Christmas by the sea. The lighthouse pieces are especially beautiful when lit. They become a focal point in any display.

How to Start Your Own Department 56 Christmas Vacation Display: A Step-by-Step Guide

Starting a village can feel overwhelming. But it is easy if you follow steps. Here is a simple guide to create your first display.

Step 1: Choose Your Theme and Budget

First, decide on a theme. Look at the collections above. Which one do you like most? Do you want a traditional American town? Or a magical North Pole? Pick one main theme to start. This keeps your display cohesive. Also, set a budget. Department 56 pieces range in price. New buildings can cost $50 to $150 or more. Accessories are less expensive. You can also find used pieces for less money. Decide how much you want to spend this year.

Step 2: Select Your Display Space

Find a good spot in your home. You need a flat, stable surface. Popular places are:

A wide mantel over the fireplace.
A long table or buffet in the living room.
Shelves built into a wall.
A dedicated table in a corner.

Make sure the space is near an electrical outlet. You will need to plug in the lights. Also, think about visibility. You want to see your village from where you sit. Measure the space. This helps you know how many pieces will fit.

Step 3: Gather Your Base Materials

You need more than just buildings. A good base makes the scene look real. Here is a basic supply list:

Base Layer: Use a white felt or fluffy blanket to look like snow.
Platforms: Use small boxes or styrofoam blocks to create hills. Cover them with the snow material.
Lighting: Department 56 uses light cords with multiple plugs. You can buy their official cords or use safe LED strings.
Extension Cords: To manage wires neatly.

You can buy pre-made village display tables. But a DIY approach is cheaper and more creative.

Step 4: Buy Your First Pieces

Start with a few key pieces. A good starter set includes:

1-2 Building: Choose a house and a shop. Make sure they are from the same collection.
1 Accessory Pack: This could be trees, people, or a car.
1 Special Piece: Maybe a lighthouse or a church for a centerpiece.

You can buy from the official Department 56 website. Or check local holiday stores. Online marketplaces like eBay have older pieces. Always check for cracks or broken lights if buying used.

Step 5: Arrange and Layer Your Scene

Now, set up your village. Do not just line up buildings. Create depth and interest. Follow these tips:

Place Larger Buildings in Back: Put taller pieces at the back of the display. Put smaller pieces in front. This creates a 3D effect.
Create Pathways: Leave space between buildings for "streets." You can add tiny streetlamps or signs.
Group Similar Items: Put houses in a "neighborhood." Put shops in a "downtown" area.
Add Natural Elements: Use clumps of trees to separate areas. It looks more realistic.

Play with the arrangement. Move things around until it looks right. Take a photo with your phone. Looking at a photo helps you see the balance.

Step 6: Add Lighting and Final Touches

Plug in all your buildings. Make sure the cords are hidden. Tuck them under the snow blanket. Use black electrical tape to secure cords on the back of the table. Then add final touches. Sprinkle a little artificial snow powder. Place your accessory figures. Put a car on the street. Place people near buildings. Finally, step back and enjoy your Christmas vacation scene!

Advanced Tips for Seasoned Collectors

If you already have a village, here are ways to make it better.

Creating Realistic Landscapes

Go beyond a flat table. Use insulation foam board from a hardware store. You can cut it with a knife. Create different levels: hills, valleys, and plateaus. Cover everything with white batting or snow blanket. For a frozen pond, use a mirror or a piece of shiny blue plastic. Add tiny resin ice skaters. For rocky cliffs, use crumpled foil covered with plaster and paint. Then dust with snow. This takes time but looks amazing.

Mastering the Art of Lighting

Good lighting makes a village magical. Do not rely only on building lights. Add ambient light. Use a small, dimmable lamp behind the display. This creates a moonlight effect. You can also use fiber optic kits to make twinkling stars in the background. For streetlights, consider using battery-operated LED tea lights inside small paper lanterns. The key is layers of light. It adds depth and warmth. Avoid bright overhead room lights. They wash out the delicate glow of the village.

Incorporating Motion and Sound

Add movement to your scene. You can buy small, quiet rotating turntables. Place a skating rink on it. The skaters will spin slowly. Some collectors add falling snow machines. These are small devices that blow tiny white flakes. They are safe for indoor use. For sound, a hidden Bluetooth speaker is perfect. Play soft Christmas music or sounds of a winter wind. You can find these tracks on YouTube or music apps. This engages more senses and brings the village to life.

Department 56 Collecting: Understanding Value and Rarity

Some Department 56 pieces are very valuable. Knowing what makes a piece special helps you collect wisely.

The "Retired" Piece Phenomenon

Department 56 retires pieces. This means they stop making them. Retired pieces often go up in value. Collectors want them to complete sets. The value depends on:

Age: Older pieces (1980s-1990s) are often more valuable.
Popularity: Pieces from popular collections like Dickens' Village.
Condition: Pieces in original box with no damage are best.
Rarity: Some pieces had limited production runs.

You can check retired piece values on collector sites and eBay sold listings. The eBay "sold items" filter shows real prices people pay.

Spotting Authentic Pieces vs. Fakes

Most Department 56 items are real. But sometimes fakes appear. Here is how to tell:

Look for the Mark: Genuine pieces have "Department 56" stamped on the bottom. Often with the collection name (e.g., "Snow Village") and a date.
Check the Quality: Real pieces have neat paint, fine details, and heavy ceramic. Fakes may have sloppy paint or feel light.
Buy from Reputable Sellers: Use official retailers, trusted online stores, or known collector groups.

If a price seems too good to be true, it might be a fake. Do your research first.

Practical Tips for Care, Storage, and Maintenance

Your village is an investment. Take care of it so it lasts for generations.

Cleaning Your Ceramic Pieces

Dust is the main enemy. Never use water or cleaning sprays. The paint can run or the electrical parts can break. Instead, use a soft, dry makeup brush or a photographer's lens brush. Gently sweep dust off the surfaces. For hard-to-reach spots, use a can of compressed air. Hold it upright and spray short bursts. Do this before you pack the pieces away after Christmas. Clean pieces stay looking new.

Safe Packing and Storage Solutions

Proper storage prevents damage. Follow this method:

Wrap Each Piece Individually: Use soft tissue paper or bubble wrap. Do not let pieces touch each other.
Use Original Boxes: If you have them, use the original boxes. They are designed to fit the piece perfectly.
Choose a Sturdy Container: Place wrapped pieces in plastic storage bins with lids. Label the bin "Fragile - Department 56."
Store in a Climate-Controlled Space: Avoid attics or garages. Heat and cold can damage ceramic and wiring. A closet inside your home is best.

Take photos of your setup before packing. This helps you remember the arrangement next year.

Handling Electrical Issues

Lights can fail over time. Most Department 56 buildings use standard 12-volt bulbs. You can buy replacement bulbs online. To replace a bulb:

Unplug the building.
Find the bulb access panel. It is usually under the base.
Gently remove the old bulb.
Insert a new bulb of the same type.
Test it before placing it back in the display.

If many lights fail, the cord or transformer may be bad. You can buy replacement cords from the company or craft stores. Always use the correct voltage to avoid fire risk.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. What is the most valuable Department 56 piece ever sold?

Some rare retired pieces sell for over $500. The "Christmas in the City" series from the 1980s has very valuable items. For example, the "F.A.O. Schwarz" toy store piece can sell for $600 or more in mint condition. The value depends on the market and collector demand.

2. Can I mix different Department 56 collections together?

Yes, you can mix collections. Many collectors do this. It creates a unique world. The key is to balance scale and color. For example, a North Pole piece might be bigger than a Snow Village house. Place it in the back so it does not look odd. Mixing similar styles, like Snow Village and New England Village, often works well.

3. How do I know if a piece is retired?

The Department 56 official website has a retired products archive. You can search by collection or piece name. Also, collector guidebooks list retired items. If you cannot find a piece in current stores, it is likely retired.

4. Are there Department 56 clubs or communities?

Yes. There are many online groups. Facebook has several active Department 56 collector groups. Members share photos and advice. There are also regional clubs that hold meet-ups and swap events. The Department 56 Collectors Club is a well-known organization. They offer newsletters and events.

5. What is the best surface to build my village on?

A sturdy table is best. You can also use plywood on top of sawhorses for a large display. Cover it with a holiday tablecloth or white felt first. Avoid surfaces that can be damaged by water if you use artificial snow. Also, ensure the surface is level so buildings do not tilt.

6. Can I use Department 56 villages outdoors?

It is not recommended. The pieces are made for indoor use. Moisture, wind, and sun can damage the ceramic and paint. The electrical parts are not waterproof. For outdoor decor, look for plastic or resin villages made for outside.

7. How many pieces do I need to start a nice display?

You can start with just 3-5 pieces. Two buildings, a few trees, and some people make a lovely small scene. Add 1-2 pieces each year. In five years, you will have a impressive village. It is about quality, not quantity. A well-arranged small display looks better than a crowded, messy one.

Real Examples and Display Inspiration

Seeing other displays can give you great ideas. Here are some popular themes people create.

The Classic Main Street

This display focuses on a downtown area. Line up shops on both sides of a central "street." Use a mirror as a frozen river in the middle. Add streetlamps and vintage cars. Place the town church at the end of the street as a focal point. This layout tells a story of community.

The Winter Resort Village

Combine Alpine Village with Snow Village. Create a mountain with ski slopes in the back. Place chalets on the slopes. Put a cozy village at the mountain's base. Add a ski lift using string and small chairs. This display is active and fun.

The Nostalgic Neighborhood

This setup features homes. Group several residential houses together. Give each a small "yard" with a tree or a fence. Add kids building a snowman. Place a park bench with two figures. This creates a warm, residential feeling. It is simple but very effective.

Statistics and Data About Holiday Collecting

The holiday collectibles market is big. Here are some interesting numbers.

According to the National Retail Federation, Americans spend billions on holiday decorations each year. Collectibles are a part of this.
A survey by Statista shows that over 30% of people start decorating before Thanksgiving. This gives a long time to enjoy villages.
The secondary market for retired Department 56 pieces is active. Some online auctions see hundreds of bids for rare items.
Social media has increased interest. Instagram and Pinterest have thousands of posts tagged #Department56. This inspires new collectors.
Many families report that setting up the village is a favorite holiday tradition. It often involves multiple generations.

These stats show that holiday villages are more than decor. They are part of family culture and a serious hobby for many.

Conclusion: Your Holiday Magic Awaits

A Department 56 Christmas vacation is a special tradition. It brings joy and creativity to your home. You start with a single house. Over years, it grows into a whole world. This world reflects your memories and dreams of Christmas. It is a project you can share with family. Children love placing the tiny people. Adults enjoy the artistic design. Collectors appreciate the history and value.

Remember, there is no wrong way to do this. Your village is your own. It can be big or small. It can be one theme or a mix. The goal is to create something that makes you happy. When you turn off the room lights and see the tiny windows glow, you are on a Christmas vacation. You are in a place of peace and wonder. So take the first step. Choose a piece that speaks to you. Set it up this holiday season. Watch the magic begin.

For more inspiration, visit our other guide on creating the perfect holiday mantel display. Or explore the world of vintage Christmas ornaments. Happy collecting, and may your holidays be bright!

Read Full Article →