It’s a feature common in households all around the world, dating back to 16th Century Germany. Not only does the tree itself bring pure festive joy into any home, but it’s also the process of going to choose a tree for yourself, if you get a real one, from the farm. The festive equivalent of Halloween’s pumpkin picking, it’s an important and special Christmas tradition for many. Decorating it with the Christmas classic songs playing in the background is a magical part of the festivities (once you’ve untangled the lights!). And once the tree is up, it makes the room brim with a joyous, merry atmosphere. There’s also the excitement of anticipating the presents that will be found under the tree come Christmas morning.
Not only does the tree itself bring pure festive joy into any home, but it’s also the process of going to choose a tree for yourself, if you get a real one, from the farm.
The joy of Christmas trees can be seen all around the world, from the huge trees which light up Times Square in New York, to the incredible Christmas Fair in Budapest. Each country has its own decorative traditions, bringing their own unique take on an iconic part of Christmas. As Australia celebrates the festive season in summer, shells often feature on their trees. In Finland, traditional himmeli are used, and these are geometric baubles, traditionally made with straw but now often made of gold or silver-coloured metal. In the Netherlands, home-baked biscuits called kerstkransjes are used and strung together in a wreath. Wherever in the world Christmas is celebrated, trees are sure to feature, and they really are the epitome of the quintessential Christmas festivities.