Candle Day – December 3

Candle Day, celebrated annually on December 3, has evolved into a major retail event, especially in the U.S. Its origins are tied to the tradition of using candles for both practical and decorative purposes, but its modern incarnation is largely driven by commercial sales and the rise of candle culture.

The tradition of using candles goes back thousands of years. In ancient civilizations like Egypt, Greece, and Rome, candles were used primarily for lighting and religious purposes. Early candles were made from animal fat (tallow) or beeswax, and later, with the advent of the middle ages, the introduction of more refined materials, such as spermaceti, allowed candles to burn cleaner and longer.

While the use of candles for illumination began to decline with the advent of electric lighting in the 19th and 20th centuries, candles remained a staple in homes for decorative, religious, and aromatic purposes. The use of scented candles, in particular, began to grow in popularity during the 20th century, with candles becoming a central element in creating ambiance and evoking mood in the home.

Candle Day as we know it today started as a way to celebrate the growing cultural trend of candle usage and to offer consumers a chance to indulge in their love of candles at discounted prices. It is now most notably associated with Candle Day Bath and Body Works, which holds its annual candle sale on this date. The store, known for its wide variety of fragrant candles, has made Candle Day an eagerly awaited event, offering large discounts on their signature candles and attracting thousands of shoppers each year.

Over time, Candle Day has gained momentum through word-of-mouth and savvy marketing, especially in the lead-up to the holiday season. It not only provides an opportunity for people to purchase candles at bargain prices but also acts as a celebration of the sensory experiences that candles provide, such as fragrance, light, and warmth.