December 24

Events - Culture & Arts

759day.year

Tang dynasty poet Du Fu departs for Chengdu, where he is hosted by fellow poet Pei Di.

In 759, renowned Tang dynasty poet Du Fu sets out for Chengdu, finding refuge and camaraderie with poet Pei Di.
Amid the turmoil of the An Lushan Rebellion, Du Fu journeyed southwest to the safety of Chengdu. He was warmly received and sheltered by his fellow poet Pei Di, fostering a creative haven. During his stay, Du Fu composed some of his most poignant works reflecting on war, displacement, and nature. This period strengthened a lifelong friendship and contributed to Du Fu’s enduring reputation as a pillar of Chinese literature. The poems born from this time illustrate the resilience of art in times of upheaval.
759 Tang dynasty Du Fu departs for Chengdu Pei Di
1818day.year

The first performance of "Silent Night" takes place in the Nikolauskirche in Oberndorf, Austria.

On December 24, 1818, "Silent Night" is sung for the first time at the Nikolauskirche in Oberndorf, Austria.
Joseph Mohr wrote the lyrics in 1816 and Franz Xaver Gruber composed the melody to be performed on guitar when the church organ failed. The peaceful carol captured the spirit of Christmas Eve, resonating with parishioners and clergy alike. Word of the song spread rapidly throughout Austria and Germany, leading to countless translations and arrangements. Today, "Silent Night" remains one of the most beloved and enduring Christmas hymns worldwide. Its debut in a small Austrian village marked the beginning of a global holiday tradition.
1818 Silent Night Nikolauskirche Oberndorf Austria
1871day.year

The opera Aida premieres in Cairo, Egypt.

Verdi's opera Aida debuts in Cairo, Egypt on December 24, 1871.
Commissioned by the Khedive of Egypt to celebrate the opening of the Suez Canal’s new opera house, Aida combines grandeur and drama with innovative staging. Giuseppe Verdi’s score evokes the splendor of ancient Egypt, while Antonio Ghislanzoni’s libretto weaves a tragic love story between an Ethiopian princess and an Egyptian warrior. The premiere featured lavish sets, authentic Egyptian costumes, and a chorus of hundreds, dazzling local and international audiences. Aida became one of the most frequently performed operas worldwide, cementing Verdi's legacy and influencing grand opera productions.
1871 Aida Cairo Egypt