At the City Archives 'Stadsarkivet', there is a comprehensive photo archive of Luleå from the past. The Christmas window displays of the 1950s and 1960s created a sense of eager anticipation. Great care was taken in arranging the displays and decorations. Crowds gathered around the shop windows.

Shopkeepers took the opportunity to attract customers before Christmas shopping. There might be a film screening in one window or a jazz band playing in another. "Window Display Sunday" was a true "happening," and the displays were the main attraction. Storgatan (the main street) was adorned with garlands, and throughout the entire Sunday, but especially in the evening, people were out and about.

Christmas window display 1963. Santas elves play with the toys in the display. Photo: Unknown

Christmas window display 1963 at Fritz Ohlson, who also sold radios and TVs. Photo: Gunnar Bergbom

Shell displays its Christmas window in 1965. Photo: Rune Espling

The pastry shop, Sjögrens konditori, with its Christmas window display 1958. 'Sjögrens' was located at the corner of Kungsgatan and Storgatan. Photo: Gunnar Bergbom

The women's hair salon Clinique de Beauté with Christmas decorations in December 1953. The salon was located at Kungsgatan 24. Photo: Rune Espling

Christmas 1962. The Christmas elves showcase the toys. Photo: Unknown

Christmas in 'Shopping' 1958. A  real Santa train welcomes visitors. Photo: Gunnar Bergbom

Christmas window display in 'Shopping' 1961. Photo: Rune Espling

Christmas in 'Shopping' 1958. 'Shopping' provided an opportunity to go indoors, otherwise you had to stay outside. Photo: Gunnar Bergbom

Christmas in 'Shopping' 1958. Entire settings were created. Photo: Gunnar Bergbom

Christmas window display in 'Shopping' 1961. A lot of "handicraft" behind the displays. Photo: Rune Espling

Christmas window display in 'Shopping' 1961. Here, all shops in 'Shopping'  have their own ornament. Photo: Rune Espling

Are you interested in seeing more pictures of Luleå from the past?

Visit Stadsarkivet's historical photo archives at bildinternet.lulea.se.