The Story of the Christmas Tree

Ever wondered about where the tradition of having a tree in the home at Christmas time comes from? Nobody knows for sure, but there are several historical clues which point out where this custom comes from.

The Magic of Evergreens

Thousands of years ago, people believed that evergreen trees were magical as they kept their foliage even in the winter when other trees where brown and bare. They saw the evergreen as a symbol of life and as a sure sign that spring would soon return.

An Ancient Roman Feast

In ancient Rome, people decorated their homes and temples with greenery during a special December feast. They all enjoyed the carnival atmosphere and gave each other presents.

The Legend of Martin Luther

Legend has it that a monk, Martin Luther, began the first tradition of bringing the tree indoors. He was said to have been amazed walking home one night to have seen the stars twinkling through the branches of the fir trees. To help his family understand this, he went back to the forest to cut down a tree. He then brought the tree back inside and decorated it with candles to represent the stars that he had seen.

The Tradition Spreads

The custom spread in Germany and from there all over the world. In the UK, Prince Albert set up a Christmas tree at Windsor Castle in 1841 to remind him of his German homeland. The tradition was then taken out to the USA.

Christmas Tree Symbolism

The electric lights or candles that we use today symbolize the light of spring triumphing over the darkness of winter.

Nowadays, the Christmas tree is a magical symbol for all who celebrate Christmas.