where did christmas tree tradition begin

The tradition of decorating Christmas trees has its roots in ancient pagan customs. Ancient civilizations would decorate trees with ornaments and lights to honor the winter solstice, the shortest day of the year. In the 16th century, German Christians began decorating evergreen trees as a way to symbolize everlasting life. The tradition eventually spread throughout Europe and the Americas, and today we celebrate Christmas by decorating trees with colorful ornaments, lights, and garlands.