The history of Christmas trees - Is yours up already?

For many, Christmas is not complete without a big, gaudy Christmas tree. And oftentimes, decorating the Christmas tree is a fun family tradition. But where did this classic tradition of Christmas trees come from?

Long before Christianity, evergreen plants—such as fir, spruce, and pine—symbolized enduring life during the cold winter. This evergreen tradition also existed among the Celts and other northern European people as a symbol of the return of life after winter.

The modern concept of bringing an entire evergreen into the home and decorating it is likely to have originated in Germany by the 16th century, according to History.com .

Martin Luther, the 16th-century Protestant reformer, is believed to have been the first to place lighted candles on a tree. The story goes that he was o