Christmas trees are decorated beautifully because they bring hope, joy, and good fortune. There are several reasons behind decorating Christmas trees. Every year, families buy a Christmas tree and then decorate it beautifully. Each decoration has a special meaning behind it. Let us explore how this tradition came about and why it still brings so much joy today.
Where Did the Christmas Tree Come From?
Although Christmas has been celebrated since before the birth of Jesus Christ, the tradition of bringing this green tree has existed since before Christianity. The tradition of Christmas trees first started in Germany. At that time, devout Christians used to make pyramids in their homes, which were decorated with wood, green leaves, and candle.
Why Do We Add Decorations?
There are several reasons behind decorating Christmas trees, among which hope, tradition, and joy are the main ones. This tradition from childhood makes the festival more joyful. Decorating the tree together becomes a special moment, which strengthens family ties. The sparkling lights and beautiful decorations of this Christmas tree make the atmosphere more joyful and attractive.
How Decorating Has Changed Over Time
Christmas tree decorations have changed a lot over time. In the very beginning, in ancient times, they were decorated with fruits, paper flowers and candles. In the Middle Ages, it is known that in Germany, they were decorated with various food items. Then, under the influence of Queen Victoria, German glass ornaments became quite popular. Today, the use of electric lights started, artificial trees came and theme-based decorations became very popular.
How People Decorate Trees Around the World
In different countries, people decorate Christmas trees in a common way with their culture and traditions. Several features can be seen in the decorations of certain countries:
Germany: Decorated with candles, fruits and handmade wooden ornaments.
India: Sometimes, instead of pine and fir, mango trees or bamboo trees are decorated as Christmas trees.
United States: Here, Christmas trees are usually decorated with colorful lights, sparkling balls, tinsel, and garlands. And a star is placed on top of the tree.
Ukraine: In Ukraine, Christmas trees are decorated with spider webs.
Easy and Eco-Friendly Decorating Ideas
If you want your Christmas decorations to be eco-friendly, you can use some simple ideas.
i) You can add natural beauty by using cinnamon sticks, dried oranges, pinecones.
ii) You can make decorations with dried leaves and flowers.
iii) Make stars or other Christmas decorations with old newspapers.
iv) You can make small toys or ornaments with discarded clothes.
v) Decorate with LED lights to reduce electricity consumption.
vi) Instead of throwing away last year’s decorations, you can decorate them with a little novelty.
Fun Christmas Tree Facts
i) In some parts of the world, people decorate palm trees instead of evergreens.
ii) The first artificial tree was made in Germany using green duck feathers.
iii) Many Christmas trees sold are recycled into compost or used for other purposes.
iv) The tradition of the Rockefeller center Christmas tree in New York began in 1931.
V) The Guinness World Record for the most lights on a Christmas tree is over 600,000!
Conclusion: Why This Tradition Still Matters
Christmas is a major Christian festival in this world. The traditions of this festival are still very important. The Christmas tree remains a symbol of hope, unity and joy. Christmas provides a good opportunities for family and friends to come together and all this strengthens the bonds between people.