The Christmas tree story: From forests to living rooms

This children’s article, The Christmas tree story: From forests to living rooms, has been written for native English speakers and learners of English as a second or foreign language. It can help children build vocabulary, learn about the history of Christmas trees, and discover fun winter traditions. Written by Mark Pulley, a teacher and writer who creates fun and informative news articles for English learners.

The story of the Christmas tree explained for kids 

Christmas trees may feel modern, but people have been bringing green plants inside their homes in winter for thousands of years. Long before Christmas existed, people in ancient Egypt, China, and Rome used evergreen branches to celebrate life during the darkest months of the year.

The Christmas tree tradition we know today began in Germany around 500 years ago. Families decorated small fir trees with apples, nuts, candles, and sweet treats. These trees became a symbol of hope and light during winter.

From Germany to the world

In the 1800s, Christmas trees spread across Europe. The tradition became extremely popular in Britain after Queen Victoria and Prince Albert, who was from Germany, were shown standing beside a decorated tree in a famous newspaper picture. 

It didn’t take long for the tradition to reach the United States and then across the world. Today, Christmas trees appear in millions of homes each December, and the tradition continues to evolve.

How people decorate them today

Modern Christmas trees come in many shapes and sizes. Some people still choose real pine or fir trees, while others use artificial ones that they can reuse every year. Decorations have also changed over time. Apples and candles have become colourful lights, shiny baubles, tinsel, ribbons, and ornaments that families collect over the years.

Many homes have a special star or angel at the top of the tree. Some trees even have themes, such as “gold and white”, “snowy forest”, or “retro Christmas”. Others are mismatched and full of family memories, which can be just as beautiful.

Fun facts about Christmas trees

There are many surprising facts about Christmas trees. The tallest real Christmas tree ever displayed was in Seattle, USA, and stood over 67 metres high. 

Artificial trees were once made from goose feathers dyed green. 

Each year, Norway send a giant Christmas tree to Trafalgar Square in London as a thank-you for Britain’s help during the Second World War.

The Christmas tree has changed over time, but its meaning remains the same: celebrating light, family, and togetherness during the winter season.

Article vocabulary list

• Evergreen: A type of tree that stays green all year.
• Tradition: A custom or activity passed down through generations.
• Ornament: A decoration placed on a tree or around the home.
• Artificial: Something made by people, not natural.
• Bauble: A small round decoration used on Christmas trees.
• Lantern: A light inside a decorative cover.
• Straw: Dried stems of plants, sometimes used to make decorations.
• Rotate: To turn in a circular motion.

Comprehension questions

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