European Union Forums

[Lorry]

Do you know any traditions in different countries about the Christmas tree? When it appeared and from what place exactly? What does it represent and what benefits brings it to us? One of it is clean oxygen and beautiful smell.

[Martin]

The Christmas tree is coming from the ancient pagans, Druids, Egyptians, Chinese, and Hebrews. To them
the evergreen tree represented eternal life and the promise of replenishment during the cold winter solstice. Apples and other fruit were hung upon the tree to represent the plentiful food to come. Candles were lighted to symbolize the warmth and brightness of the sun. While the Christmas tree is generally associated with Christ, it predates this religious figure by many centuries.

[Laurentine]

Nothing is perhaps more symbolic of the Christmas season than the important tradition of decorating a family Christmas tree. Whether a tree is purchased, is artificial or real, is hung with homemade ornaments or store bought or a combination of both, is typically an extension of the tradition an adult experienced as a child.