The tradition of decorating a Christmas tree has been around for centuries and is believed to have originated in Germany in the 16th century. During this time, it was a common practice to bring an evergreen tree into the home during the winter months as a symbol of life and renewal. The first known reference to a decorated Christmas tree comes from a 1510 German manuscript, which describes the custom of decorating a tree with apples, nuts, and wafers. Over time, the tradition of decorating a Christmas tree with lights and ornaments has spread to other parts of the world, becoming a beloved holiday tradition for many people.