1. The first recorded Christmas celebration in Vermont occurred in 1630, when French explorer Samuel de Champlain and his men celebrated the holiday in what is now known as Burlington.
2. In 1777, the Continental Army under General George Washington crossed the Delaware River on the night of December 25 to surprise and defeat Hessian mercenaries at the Battle of Trenton. Vermont soldiers were among those who fought in this pivotal battle of the Revolutionary War.
3. In 1837, the state of Vermont officially recognized December 25 as a state holiday, joining other states and countries around the world in celebrating Christmas.
4. The town of Woodstock, Vermont is known for its annual Wassail Weekend, which takes place during the second weekend in December and includes a parade, holiday concerts, and a traditional "wassail" toast to the community.
5. On December 25, 2010, the ski resort community of Killington, Vermont set a world record for the largest gathering of skiing Santa Clauses, with over 600 people participating in the festive event.