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Why do we have Christmas trees?

Why do we have Christmas trees?

Have you ever wondered why we put up a tree every Christmas?

It's not just so that we can decorate them with eye-catching lights, glitzy tinsel and stunning baubles, there is a much deeper meaning behind them.

Check out some of the interesting reasons we display Christmas trees below...

Ancient traditions

Long before Christmas existed, people adored evergreen plants during winter. Cultures like the Egyptians, Chinese, and Hebrews used evergreens to symbolize eternal life because they stayed green when everything else seemed to wither.

Winter solstice fun

Many ancient cultures celebrated the winter solstice, the shortest day of the year, with evergreens. For example, the Druids, the priests of the ancient Celts, decorated their temples with evergreen boughs to remind everyone that life would return in the spring.

Medieval plays

In the Middle Ages, Germans enjoyed "Paradise plays," which were performed on December 24th to celebrate Adam and Eve. They used evergreen trees decorated with apples to tell the story of creation and the promise of a saviour.

Symbol of eternal life

Over time, the evergreen tree became associated with Christianity and the idea of eternal life through Christ. By the 16th century, devout Christians in Germany were bringing these decorated trees into their homes.

German influence

The tradition is believed to have started in Germany in the 16th century. There's a lovely story about Martin Luther, the Protestant reformer, being inspired by stars shining through evergreen trees and bringing one into his home to share the beauty with his family.

Spreading cheer

The custom spread across Europe and was brought to America by German immigrants. It became especially popular in Britain during Queen Victoria's time. She and her German-born husband, Prince Albert, made Christmas trees fashionable in the 1840s.

Modern celebrations

Today, Christmas trees are a joyful part of the holiday season, adorned with all sorts of ornaments, lights, tinsel, and personal touches. Each tree becomes a unique centrepiece of holiday festivities.

So, the Christmas tree is a cherished symbol of joy, celebration, and the magic of the festive season, bringing warmth and happiness to homes around the world. Who's excited for the festive season this year? We know we are!