When people decorate a Christmas tree each December, few realize that this beloved tradition largely originated in Germany.

The earliest records of decorated Christmas trees date back to the 16th century in Germany. Families would bring evergreen fir trees into their homes and decorate them with apples, nuts, candles, and handmade ornaments. The evergreen tree symbolized life and hope during the cold winter months.

The tradition remained mostly German for centuries until the 19th century, when it began spreading across Europe. A major turning point came in 1848 when an illustration of the British royal family, led by the German-born Prince Albert and Queen Victoria, gathered around a decorated Christmas tree was published. The image became extremely popular and inspired families throughout Britain and beyond to adopt the custom.

As German immigrants settled in the United States and other countries, they brought the tradition with them. Over time, Christmas trees became a global symbol of the holiday season.

Today, millions of Christmas trees are decorated every year across the world, yet the roots of this festive tradition can be traced back to German homes centuries ago.