How did the Christmas Tree tradition begin
The tradition of the Christmas tree began centuries ago, during ancient times. The ancient Egyptians started the tradition of bringing trees indoors during the winter season for good fortune during the winter solstice, and would place palm fronds on the branches of the tree to symbolize eternal life. Ancient Romans also participated in the tradition by bringing evergreen trees inside their homes to celebrate the god of agriculture during the festival of Saturnalia.
Later in the 16th century, families began decorating evergreen trees with ornaments and candles to celebrate the holidays in Germany. This practice of decorating trees became popular throughout Germany and by the 19th century, the tradition had spread throughout Europe and to other countries as well.
By the early 1800s, the Christmas tree tradition was prevelant in the United States as well. When immigrants from Germany came to America, they brought their Christmas tree tradition with them and the practice became popular for families. In 1865, the 14th President of the United States, Franklin Pierce, brought the first recorded Christmas tree into the White House.
The tradition of decorating trees for the holidays has continued to be a wonderful way to celebrate the holiday season with loved ones, and now, Christmas trees can be found all over the world. Several Christmas trees have become famous for their size, decorations, and uniqueness. Notably, the Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree in New York City has become iconic for its 100 foot tall size and the thousands of lights and ornaments that adorn the tree. It is also famous for its annual lighting ceremony that has been taking place since 1933.
Every year, in the first week of December, people gather from all over the world to watch the tree come to life at Rockefeller Center, and throughout the rest of the month, over a million people visit the tree. The Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree is renowned for its symbol of unity, generosity, and environmental sustainability during the holiday season. Each year, the tree is donated by a family and after the holiday season, the tree is recycled.
The tradition of decorating trees has evolved from the ancient Egyptians, to the 16th century in Germany, to countries all over the world, including the United States. Today, the Christmas tree continues to be a cherished part of the holidays for many families and communities.