The tradition of having a beautifully decorated and lit Christmas tree at home is a cherished part of the holiday season, but its origins remain a topic of discussion.
One country that claims to be the home of the world’s first Christmas tree is Latvia.Â
Riga, Latvia, claims to be home to the world’s first Christmas tree. (iStock)
European cities offer various winter holiday activities such as Christmas markets, festive decorations, and cheerful performances. There is much to see and do during this time of year, despite the chilly weather.
The cold climate does bring plenty of snowfall in both Latvia and Estonia, so a white Christmas is definitely a possibility. Â
Although the question of the first Christmas tree’s exact origin can spark some debate, the custom of having trees inside homes during the holiday season is less contentious.
The tradition of bringing Christmas trees into homes is believed to have originated in Germany during the 1600s, according to the National Christmas Tree Association.Â
During the time, apples, red strips of paper and gilded nuts were all popular decorations to add to a Christmas tree, according to the source.Â
The tradition of decorating a Christmas tree with sparkling lights and an array of ornaments creates moments treasured by families. (iStock)
It was the 1800s when the Christmas tree tradition started gaining traction in the United States, according to History.com.Â
It wasn’t until 1901 when the first Christmas tree farm opened in the country. W.V. McGalliard was responsible for opening the country’s very first Christmas tree farm in New Jersey when he planted 25,000 Norway spruce, according to the National Christmas Tree Association.Â
Today, there are around 15,000 Christmas tree farms around the United States.Â
Many families find holiday joy in going to the Christmas tree farm each year to pick out the tree that will be the festive centerpiece of their home for December.
