Mitten Tree Day

Mitten Tree Day is a holiday observed annually on December 6th. On this day, people collect mittens to hang on Christmas trees and distribute to those in need. During the winter months, mittens are extremely important and can prevent individuals from developing frostbite.

In extreme cold, exposed skin can become frostbitten in under 10 minutes, so it’s clear why having the proper winter gear, particularly mittens, is important. Unfortunately, many underprivileged individuals do not have access to mittens, which is why observing this day is crucial for so many.

The History of Mitten Tree Day

According to cave paintings, humans have worn mittens for a long time. It is believed that simple mittens date back to the Ice Age. However, no mittens from that era have been discovered.

The oldest pair of gloves that have survived the ravages of time were linen gloves created around 1343 B.C. and found in King Tutankhamun’s tomb in 1922. It is believed that he wore these gloves while holding the reins of his chariot, making them the first known riding gloves.

People continued to wear gloves over the centuries, and they became particularly popular during the Middle Ages in Europe. Chain-mail gloves were created for warfare, and heavy leather gloves were crafted for blacksmithing. Nobility, merchants, and clergy also wore gloves as a status symbol or for ceremonial purposes.

The history behind Mitten Tree Day is not as well-documented as the history of mittens and gloves. It is believed that the holiday was created by school teachers as a classroom activity that was both enjoyable and could provide needy students with the mittens they required.

It was named after a book by Candace Christiansen called “The Mitten Tree.” The children’s book tells the story of a woman named Sara who noticed a boy at a bus stop without mittens, so she left some for him at the bus stop the following day. This book is a wonderful winter read and serves as a reminder that a small act of kindness can make a significant difference.

Observing Mitten Tree Day

Mitten Tree Day is an opportunity to give mittens to those in need. Classrooms can create their own mitten tree, or individuals can buy pairs of mittens and distribute them to those who need them. Mittens can also be donated to organizations that will distribute them to schoolchildren, the homeless, or others in need. To spread the word about this holiday, use the hashtag #MittenTreeDay online.

When is it?
This year (2024)
December 6 Friday
Next year (2025)
December 6 Saturday
Last year (2023)
December 6 Wednesday
Topic
Lifestyle