Christmas Trees

Christmas is celebrated with many beloved traditions that we have come to know and love, but few are as iconic or as long lasting as the Christmas tree. Each year, millions of families  around the world gather to decorate their trees with lights and ornaments. But while the Christmas tree is now a familiar symbol of Christmas, its origins and meaning stretch beyond modern celebrations.

The tradition of using Christmas trees during the holiday season has deep historical roots that blend ancient customs Christian symbolism. Before Christmas was as widespread as it is now, ancient cultures such as the Egyptians, Romans, and Celts used evergreen plants during winter festivals. These evergreens symbolized life, resilience, and hope during the darkest, coldest months of the year. When the winter solstice arrived, people decorated their homes with many plants to remind themselves of how the warmer days and sunlight would return eventually.

As Christianity started gaining traction in Europe, many of these ancient customs were reshaped to fit Christian celebrations. By the time the middle ages rolled around, evergreens began to appear in festivities related to the story of Adam and Eve, where the “paradise tree” represented the tree of life. Over time these trees became associated with Christmas, which celebrates the birth of Jesus. Germans in the 16th century are credited with being the first to bring fully decorated trees into their homes during Christmas, often adorning them with candles, apples, and handmade ornaments. 

The popularity of the Christmas tree continued to grow, especially after Queen Victoria and Prince Albert introduced the custom to the British royal family in the 19th century due to Prince Albert's German roots. When an illustration of the decorated tree was published, the tradition quickly spread throughout all of Europe and North America. Today the Christmas tree remains a cherished symbol of Christmas values. Whether decorated with simple lights or flashy ornaments, it continues to bring warmth and meaning to holiday celebrations around the world.