Why Dept 56 Villages Are a Holiday Classic

When it comes to Christmas décor that captures the magic of the season, few things are as beloved as a glowing, snow-dusted holiday village. Among collectors and festive households, Dept 56 villages have become a staple of the holiday season. These miniature buildings, streets, trees, and figurines combine charm, nostalgia, and craftsmanship to create scenes that feel like stepping into a storybook.

In this article, we’ll explore the history of Dept 56, why their holiday villages have become so iconic, and how you can start or grow your own collection.

What Is Dept 56?

Dept 56 is a company founded in 1976 that specializes in holiday collectibles and décor. Best known for its lit porcelain village buildings, Dept 56 has created multiple themed lines that celebrate not only Christmas but also Halloween, cities, literary works, and pop culture.

The company’s name refers to Department 56 of Bachman’s, a Minnesota-based retail florist where the founders originally worked. What began as a small seasonal giftware division quickly grew into one of the most recognized holiday brands in the world.

A Brief History of Dept 56 Villages

The very first line of holiday villages was launched in 1976 and called The Original Snow Village. It featured six hand-painted ceramic houses, and it laid the foundation for what would become an expansive collectible universe.

Over the years, Dept 56 introduced many themed village lines:

• The Original Snow Village (1976) – Traditional American towns and homes
  
  
• Heritage Village Collection (1984) – A broader line that includes Dickens’ Village, New England Village, and Alpine Village
  
  
• Dickens’ Village (1984) – Based on 19th-century London and characters from Charles Dickens
  
  
• North Pole Series (1990) – A whimsical take on Santa’s home and workshop
  
  
• Christmas in the City (1987) – Urban buildings and city scenes
  
  
• Snow Village Halloween (1998) – A spooky twist on the classic snow village
  
  

Each village line includes houses, shops, churches, bridges, lampposts, trees, and figures—all designed to be displayed together in a lifelike holiday setting.

Why Collectors Love Dept 56 Villages

Dept 56 villages appeal to a wide range of collectors and decorators. Whether displayed during the holidays or year-round, these miniature scenes offer a sense of warmth and storytelling that is hard to match.

Here are some of the top reasons why collectors love Dept 56:

1. Detailed Craftsmanship

Each piece is handcrafted and painted with great attention to detail. From the snowy rooftops to tiny wreaths on doors, the buildings feel realistic and full of character.

2. Endless Variety

With dozens of village series and hundreds of buildings and accessories, collectors can find pieces that reflect their interests, hometowns, favorite stories, or holiday memories.

3. Annual Releases

Dept 56 releases new buildings and figurines every year. Some are limited editions, which adds excitement and exclusivity for serious collectors.

4. Lit Buildings and Moving Parts

Many pieces include built-in lights or motion features, bringing the village to life. Lighted windows create a cozy, magical effect, especially when displayed in dim rooms.

5. Nostalgia and Tradition

For many families, setting up the village is an annual tradition that evokes memories of childhood, snow-covered streets, and holiday warmth.

Most Popular Dept 56 Village Collections

1. The Original Snow Village

Launched in 1976, this series portrays a classic mid-century American town during Christmastime. Think small-town diners, post offices, and snow-covered family homes. It is one of the most expansive and longest-running lines.

2. Dickens’ Village

Inspired by Victorian England and Charles Dickens’ characters, this series is known for its old-world charm. Gas street lamps, cobblestone streets, and tiny horse-drawn carriages bring the stories of Dickens to life.

3. North Pole Series

Whimsical and colorful, the North Pole Series features candy-striped factories, Santa’s workshop, elf cottages, and toy shops. It is a favorite for families with young children and collectors who enjoy fantasy themes.

4. Christmas in the City

This urban-inspired village is filled with tall buildings, hotels, theaters, and brownstones. It captures the spirit of a bustling city during the holidays.

5. Alpine Village and New England Village

These two lines reflect European and colonial American themes. With wood-paneled inns, stone churches, and charming marketplaces, they are ideal for collectors who appreciate traditional or historical settings.

Starting Your Own Dept 56 Village Display

If you're new to Dept 56 or looking to build your first display, here are a few steps to get started:

1. Choose a Theme

Pick a series that matches your style or interests. If you love Charles Dickens, start with the Dickens’ Village. For a whimsical feel, the North Pole Series might be a perfect fit.

2. Start Small

You don’t need a massive collection to enjoy a Dept 56 village. Begin with three to five pieces—a few buildings, trees, and figures—and build from there over time.

3. Use the Right Lighting

Lighted buildings are one of the highlights of any Dept 56 setup. Use power strips with multiple outlets to connect several houses. Dim the room lighting to let the village glow.

4. Add Snow and Accessories

Use artificial snow, cotton batting, or foam bases to create realistic landscapes. Bridges, fences, lampposts, and figures add movement and personality to your display.

5. Get Creative With Display Locations

Village displays can go beyond the fireplace mantel. Try bookshelves, side tables, window sills, or a dedicated tabletop. Some collectors even build multi-level platforms or include mirrors to reflect the lights.

Tips for Storing and Preserving Dept 56 Pieces

Dept 56 collectibles are fragile and need to be stored properly to ensure they last for many holiday seasons. Here’s how to keep your collection in top shape:

• Use Original Packaging: The foam inserts and boxes are designed for each piece and provide the best protection.
  
  
• Label and Organize: Label your boxes and store them in a dry, cool place to avoid moisture damage.
  
  
• Avoid Direct Sunlight: Sunlight can fade paint and finishes over time.
  
  
• Dust Gently: Use a soft brush or microfiber cloth to clean pieces during setup and takedown.
  
  

Fun Ways to Customize Your Village Scene

Building a village can become a form of artistic expression. Here are creative ways collectors personalize their displays:

• Add Custom Backdrops: Use printed paper or foam board to create a sky or town background.
  
  
• Include Sound: Add ambient music or sound effects to make the scene more immersive.
  
  
• Combine Collections: Mix village lines or add seasonal décor from other brands to expand the storytelling.
  
  
• Tell a Story: Set up your scene around a central theme or narrative, such as preparing for a holiday parade or Santa’s big night.
  
  

Frequently Asked Questions

Are Dept 56 villages still being made?

Yes. Dept 56 releases new village buildings, accessories, and figures each year. Most of their core series like Snow Village, Dickens’ Village, and North Pole Series continue to be updated annually.

Are Dept 56 buildings valuable?

While some older or limited-edition pieces may increase in value over time, most collectors focus on enjoyment rather than resale value. Collectability can be influenced by condition, rarity, and popularity of the series.

What materials are Dept 56 villages made from?

Most buildings are crafted from porcelain or ceramic and are hand-painted. Some newer pieces may incorporate plastic details or moving components.

Can you mix and match village collections?

Absolutely. Many collectors mix elements from different series to create a unique display. Just make sure the scale and theme feel cohesive.

Do all Dept 56 buildings light up?

Most buildings come with a light cord and bulb. Some newer pieces include LED lighting or animation. Accessories like trees or streetlamps may not include lights unless specified.

Final Thoughts

Dept 56 villages have become a beloved part of holiday traditions for many families and collectors. Their charming details, cozy lighting, and nostalgic scenes bring warmth and wonder to holiday decorating. Whether you start with a single house or build an entire town, a Dept 56 display is a timeless way to celebrate the magic of the season.

From snowy rooftops to cheerful carolers, these tiny towns invite us to slow down, enjoy the holiday spirit, and create scenes that are as magical as the memories we make beside them.