Did you know that 32.8 million Christmas trees were purchased in 2005? This number is increasing every year as more and more people are displaying Christmas trees in their homes, businesses, and yards. The Christmas tree goes back many years, and today it has become an acclaimed tradition.

Origination of the Christmas Tree

Evergreen trees were used by many pagans for honoring their gods and spirits. The tree reminded them that winter was going to end and spring would begin. The evergreen tree also played an important role in miracle plays during the 14th and 15th centuries. During a play which dramatized the fall of Adam and Eve, the Paradise Tree (an evergreen decorated with red apples) appeared on the stage. Oak trees were decorated with fruit and candles by the Druids to honor their gods. Romans decorated their trees with trinkets, candles, and small pieces of metal.

Facts about Christmas Trees

The best selling Christmas trees are White pine, Balsam fur, Scotch pine, Douglas fur, Fraser fur, and Noble fur. There are more than 21,000 Christmas tree growers and more than 12,000 cut-your-own farms in the U. S. It takes an average of 7 to 10 years for a tree to mature. Christmas trees also remove dust and pollen from the air. Approximately 100,000 people are employed in the Christmas tree industry.

Christmas Trees as a Tradition

Christmas trees have been around for many, many years. They have helped to spread joy among families all over the world. The Christmas tree is a tradition to be handed down from generation to generation with great enjoyment. Sitting by your Christmas tree and sipping on hot cocoa with your family will instill a memory that will never be forgotten.