War shortages meant fewer luxuries, but rationing did not diminish the spirit of celebration. Families made homemade decorations and recycled old gifts. Churches organized drives to send Christmas packages overseas, with local schoolchildren writing letters to servicemen.
The war years also deepened Jacksonville’s tradition of community service during Christmas. Acts of charity, solidarity, and patriotism became integral to the holiday season.
Postwar Prosperity and the Suburban Christmas
After 1945, Jacksonville entered a period of growth and suburbanization. Middle-class families embraced new traditions fueled by prosperity. Department stores like Cohen Brothers downtown became famous for their elaborate Christmas window displays. Children eagerly visited Santa Claus at these stores, making it a cherished annual ritual.
The introduction of television transformed Christmas in Jacksonville. Families gathered to watch holiday specials, reinforcing national traditions. Local parades expanded, with floats, marching bands, and community groups adding spectacle to the season. Neighborhoods began competing with Christmas lights, turning suburban streets into glowing wonderlands.
By the 1950s and 1960s, Jacksonville had developed a distinctly modern Christmas—rooted in faith, family, commerce, and entertainment. shutdown123