The Christmas Tree (Second Annual Christmas Series)

This week on The Next Take Podcast, Canada’s own Mikel and Tanyka explore the rich history and surprising origins of the Christmas tree as they kick off their Second Annual Christmas SeriesThe Christmas tree is one of the most recognizable symbols of the holiday season, but its history stretches back centuries. Long before the modern Christmas celebration, evergreen plants were used during winter festivals as symbols of life, renewal, and hope during the darkest months of the year.The modern tradition of decorating Christmas trees developed largely in German-speaking regions of Europe. By the 16th century, families were bringing evergreen trees into their homes and decorating them with items such as fruit, nuts, sweets, paper decorations, and eventually candles. The custom later spread throughout Europe and became especially fashionable in Britain during the 19th century after Queen Victoria, Prince Albert, and their children were famously illustrated celebrating around a decorated Christmas tree. German immigrants and European traditions also helped bring the Christmas tree to North America. One of the earliest documented decorated Christmas trees in Canada appeared in Sorel, Quebec, in 1781, when German officer Baron Friedrich Adolf Riedesel and his family celebrated Christmas with a fir tree decorated with candles and fruit.Over time, candles gave way to electric lights, while homemade decorations evolved into the ornaments, garlands, stars, and other decorations familiar today. What began as a wintertime tradition has become an international symbol of Christmas, family gatherings, celebration, generosity, and the holiday season. (via source: National Geographic - National Geographic – History of the Christmas Tree )Streaming LinksSpotify: https://shorturl.at/dehuEApple: https://shorturl.at/fyMNZYoutube: https://shorturl.at/fuyJQSocial Media:Website: https://solo.to/nexttakepodcastEpisode Produced By: TanykaUploaded By: Mikel MilesWelcome to the Next Take Podcast—your go-to spot for real conversations about music, art, social issues, pop culture, politics, the economy, and so much more! Hosted by Two Canadians Mikel,Tanyka and Friends, each episode brings fresh takes, bold discussions, and a whole lot of heart. New episodes Monday to Friday -- don’t miss out!" Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.