Christmas Tree Origin

By Rebecca Krug

During Christmastime, one of the biggest traditions is putting up a Christmas tree and decorating it. Many people do not know where this tradition even comes from.

The reason for having a Christmas tree is as follows, “long before the advent of Christianity, plants and trees that remained green all year had a special meaning for people in the winter. Just as people today decorate their homes during the festive season with pine, spruce, and fir trees, ancient peoples hung evergreen boughs over their doors and windows. In many countries it was believed that evergreens would keep away witches, ghosts, evil spirits, and illness,” according to history.com. To me, I think this is a very nice idea. During a warm and cozy holiday, it is a good thing to have something to keep away anything bad so people can enjoy their holidays with family and friends.

As for the origin of the tradition, you may be wondering where it actually came from. It was said to have started in the 16th century in Germany (history.com). Many would decorate with candles. History.com says that many people believe that Martin Luther was the first person to decorate his tree with a candle.

Work Cited

History of Christmas Trees - Symbolism, Traditions & Trivia, 8 December 2021, https://www.history.com/topics/christmas/history-of-christmas-trees Accessed 6 December 2022.