Christmas trees have been a staple of the holiday season for many years. Families gather around to decorate their Christmas tree and celebrate together. I don’t know about you but I’ve often wondered where the Christmas tree originated.
According to Time Magazine, the Christmas tree tradition is believed to have started around the time of the Middle Ages in modern-day Germany. From this time, the Christmas tree became a tradition and flourished into what it is today.
According to The National Christmas Tree Association, the first market for Christmas trees is thought to have been located in modern-day France in the 16th century. However, it wasn’t until around the 18th and 19th centuries that Christmas trees emerged in homes in the United States, a tradition brought by German settlers. When originally introduced, Christmas trees could fit on a tabletop but, as the years passed, larger Christmas trees became increasingly popular.
Tree decorating has been around since the 1500s, but trees weren’t adorned with the ornaments we all know and love. Some trees were decorated with roses, apples, sweets, moss, cotton, popcorn, and more. Since then, our decorations have evolved into what they are today.
Following the Great Depression, the first Christmas Tree in Rockefeller Center was put up. This gigantic tree gave opportunities for new jobs and became a symbol of hope.
Around the 1960s, artificial Christmas trees entered the market. Some argue that artificial evergreens are better for the consumer, while others argue that not buying a local, live tree does not support the local economy. Still today there are debates on which version of the Christmas tree is superior.
All in all, Christmas trees have been around for centuries and it seems as if they are here to stay for the coming years. Christmastime would not be complete without everyone gathering around the famous Christmas tree.
Happy Holidays!
