The History of the Snowman: A Holiday Tradition

Snowmen have been around for centuries, dating back to the Middle Ages. People built snowmen as a way to cope with the cold, harsh winters, and as a symbol of hope for the arrival of spring. The first recorded mention of a snowman appears in a 1380 Book of Hours, which included drawings of snowmen in its pages.

During the Victorian era in the 19th century, snowmen became even more popular as winter holidays grew into festive, family-centered celebrations. People began to see snowmen not just as a way to pass the time during winter, but as a cheerful figure that represented the joy of the holiday season.

In the 20th century, the snowman gained even more attention, especially in the United States, with the introduction of Christmas songs and stories like “Frosty the Snowman.” This joyful character quickly became a holiday icon, and snowmen are now a staple in winter decorations, songs, and movies around the world.

Building a snowman is a timeless winter activity for families, and it’s easier than you might think! Here are a few tips to make sure your snowman turns out great:

1. Use the Right Snow

To build a snowman, you need snow that sticks together. Fresh, powdery snow may look beautiful, but it doesn’t pack well. The best snow for building is slightly wet, so it sticks together easily.

2. Start with a Strong Base

Roll a large snowball to form the base of your snowman. The bigger and wider the base, the sturdier your snowman will be. As you roll the snowball, pack it down to make sure it’s strong enough to support the layers on top.

3. Create the Middle and Head

After the base is ready, roll two more snowballs—one slightly smaller for the middle, and another even smaller for the head. Stack them carefully on top of each other and press them together so they stay in place.

4. Add Personality

Traditional snowmen have coal or buttons for eyes, a carrot for the nose, and sticks for arms, but don’t stop there! Add a scarf, hat, or even some festive holiday lights to give your snowman a personal touch. You can get as creative as you want with your snowman’s accessories.

5. Make It Last

Want your snowman to stick around a little longer? After building, lightly spray the snowman with water. The water will freeze and help keep the snowman sturdy as temperatures fluctuate.