Latvia claims to have displayed the world's first Christmas tree in 1510 adorned with artificial roses

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. 

Christmas tree in Lativa

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.  

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. 

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. 

Father and daughter decorating Christmas tree

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. 

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. 

Today, there are around 15,000 Christmas tree farms around the United States. 

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.

You May Also Like
Coeur d'Alene Shooting Story Takes Tragic Turn As 2 Firefighters Confirmed Dead, Number of Gunmen Unknown

Tragic Turn in Coeur d’Alene Shooting: 2 Firefighters Confirmed Dead, Gunmen’s Identities Unknown

The situation is currently very chaotic, with law enforcement not being able…
Play about 'gay' Prince George causes outrage: Off-Broadway show depicts 11-year-old's fictionalised future using drugs and engaging in BDSM - as audiences say it's 'creepy fan-fic'

Controversial Off-Broadway Show Sparks Outrage with Depiction of Fictional Future for Prince George

A controversial production in off-Broadway revolves around depicting the future of Prince…
Capitol Police arrest man who disrupted Senate debate on Trump's 'big, beautiful bill': 'You people are awful'

Man arrested by Capitol Police for disrupting Senate debate on Trump’s bill by calling Senators ‘awful’

NEWYou can now listen to Fox News articles! During the Senate debate…
New satellite imagery shows ongoing activity at Iran's Fordow nuclear complex after US airstrikes

Ongoing Activity at Iran’s Fordow Nuclear Complex Revealed in New Satellite Imagery Following US Airstrikes

NEWYou can now listen to Fox News articles! Recent satellite imagery has…
Lifeguard Charles Leto charged in Douglass Park shooting appears in court; Laquan McDonald's cousin injured, Marjay Dotson killed

Lifeguard Charles Leto, the accused in the shooting at Douglass Park, is seen in court; Laquan McDonald’s relative injured, and Marjay Dotson is dead

A lifeguard involved in a fatal shooting at a park on the…
Terror attack: FBI investigating attack in Boulder, Colorado as 'act of terror' | LIVE UPDATE

Chicago Crime Update: Man fatally stabbed at Navy Pier, suspect critically injured near East Grand Avenue, according to police sources

CHICAGO (WLS) — A man was killed in a stabbing Sunday at…
Gurnee Woodland Elementary School teacher Todd Fowler charged with disseminating child pornography, Lake County Sheriff says

Gun violence in Chicago over the weekend: Police report at least 20 people shot, with 3 deaths.

CHICAGO (WLS) — At least 20 people have been shot, three fatally,…
US considers canceling British rap duo Bob Vylan's visa after they chanted 'death to the IDF' at Glastonbury

US Contemplates Revoking Visa of British Rap Duo Bob Vylan Over ‘Death to the IDF’ Chant at Glastonbury

The U.S. State Department is currently investigating the possibility of preventing the…
Blue Origin successfully completes 13th crewed suborbital flight

Blue Origin successfully finishes 13th manned spaceflight to the edge of space

Blue Origin conducted its 13th crewed mission to the edge of space…
Legendary Hall of Fame horse trainer and face of the sport dead at 89 after being rushed to hospital

Renowned horse trainer and icon of the sport passes away at 89, following a sudden hospitalization

D. Wayne Lukas, a legendary figure who achieved great success as a…
Archaeologists make surprising discovery at hidden ancient city site

Archaeologists find unexpected artifacts at a secret ancient city location

The Spice Girls need to move aside, as girl power may have…
Joe Rogan reveals his huge fears about bread in America

Joe Rogan shares his significant concerns about bread in the United States

Joe Rogan has voiced fears about the ingredients used in bread in America,…