From Kings and Queens to Pop Stars: Artificial Christmas Trees Through the Ages
For many, the holiday season would only be complete with an evergreen tree decked out in lights and ornaments. But for an increasing number of households, that tree is artificial. Artificial Christmas trees have become a staple of modern holiday decor, whether for convenience, sustainability, or allergies. But did you know these trees have a rich history, dating back to medieval times?
Before plastic and LEDs, medieval Europeans would fashion trees out of branches and decorate them with fruit, candles, and paper flowers. The trees were intended as a symbol of Paradise, and the cult of St. Francis of Assisi popularized the practice. The tradition slowly spread across Europe, and by the 19th century, evergreen trees were a fixture in homes across the continent.
But Queen Victoria and Prince Albert brought the Christmas tree into the mainstream. In 1848, a sketch of the royal family gathered around their Christmas tree was published in the Illustrated London News, and the image captured the public’s imagination. The trend of decorating a tree for Christmas soon spread to the United States, where it took on a distinctly American flavor with tinsel, glass balls, and electric lights.
Artificial Christmas trees come in all shapes and sizes today, from tabletop miniatures to towering 14-foot behemoths. They’re made from various materials, including PVC and PE plastics, polyethylene, and recycled materials. Some are designed to mimic the look of natural trees, while others come pre-lit with LEDs and built-in decorations.
Beyond the Holiday Season: Artificial Christmas Trees and More
Artificial Christmas trees have become more than just a seasonal decoration. They’re often used in charity events, decorated, and displayed to raise money for good causes. Sometimes, they’re even decorated by pop stars and other celebrities and auctioned off to raise funds for education, health care, and other social services.
Artificial trees have also found new uses in the travel industry. Many hotels, resorts, and theme parks now feature elaborate holiday displays with life-size Santa figures, fake snow, and artificial trees. Some of these displays are so impressive that they’ve become destinations in their own right, drawing visitors worldwide.
Whether you’re looking to add a touch of holiday romance to your home, take a medieval-themed vacation, or just want to make a charitable donation, artificial Christmas trees have you covered? And with so many options available, from whimsical to elegant, there’s a tree to suit every taste and budget. So why wait? Start shopping today and get in the holiday spirit!
