The Quick Answer
Evergreens have long been symbols of life in winter. The decorated indoor Christmas tree became popular in Germany in the 1500s–1600s and spread widely in the 1800s.
The Story
Many ancient peoples brought greenery indoors in midwinter as a sign that spring would return. In Germany, Christians began bringing whole trees inside and decorating them with apples, wafers and later candles. German immigrants brought the custom to North America. A widely shared 1848 illustration of Queen Victoria and Prince Albert's family around a tree helped make it fashionable in Britain and beyond.
Legend vs. History
A popular story says Martin Luther added candles to a tree after seeing stars through the branches. It's a lovely tale, but there's no reliable evidence it happened.
Tell the Kids
“A long time ago, people in Germany brought evergreen trees inside in winter, because green trees reminded them that life and spring would come back.”
Did You Know?
Early trees were often decorated with real apples — linked to 'paradise trees' used in medieval plays about Adam and Eve.
Try This Tradition
Hang one edible or natural ornament this year — an orange slice, a cinnamon stick or a paper apple — as a nod to the earliest trees.