[Bernard Marx]

Actually, the period detail makes it either 1939 or 1940. Can't be any earlier because of the Wizard of Oz movie characters in the Christmas parade, can't be any later because World War II (December 7, 1941 on)

I agree. Some of that aura was still around in the early 50s but the movie's definitely set in the earlier time period although I'm sure a little 'artistic license' is allowed. I noticed a few chronological goofs but what the heck? A little suspension of disbelief's good for the soul.

[monkapotamus]

Artistic license appears in the mom's hair style.