The Christmas tree has been around since ancient times and has become one of the most beloved and well known symbols of Christmas traditions in almost all western world countries in one form or another. The evergreen Christmas tree was left outside in earlier times as a reminder that the desolation and cold of winter would soon end and the green life of spring would return. People decorated these outdoor trees with fruits and candles honoring the gods of harvests.

The Germans are thought to be the first to bring the tree inside and decorate them with candies, gingerbread, fruits and candles. Most Americans considered the tree an oddity in the 1830s and it wasn’t until the late 1800s that the idea caught on in America. Candles continued to be the light of choice on the tree until the invention of electricity and the light bulb in the early 20^th century.

Now, throughout the land, Christmas trees are in almost every home gloriously decorated with the unique and the traditional. Each year, people watch in awe as the President of the United States lights the national tree in Washington as a symbol of peace and unity.

Here are some great historical Christmas productions that I find interesting:

Santa is one of the most beloved of all Christmas symbols perhaps because he personifies the teachings of sharing and giving of gifts. But, it began with a man called Saint Nicholas who belonged to a wealthy family and was known for his charity and giving money to the poor.

When the Dutch came to America they brought the tradition with them. Their Sinterklaas, also known as Kris Kringle, rode on a white horse and wore a red costume. It eventually evolved into a jolly old elf who was plump and jovial.

It was Thomas Nast, a cartoonist who many credit with creating the image of Santa Claus as we think of him today. Nast drew pictures of the kindly old gentleman with a button nose in a red suit and a big wide belt. Santa is kind and generous with a wish that all would have a merry Christmas.

Here are some great Santa Clause products that would fit your Christmas holidays perfectly!

To study the history of Christmas we have to go back more than 4.000 years, centuries before Jesus was born. But, traditions say that Christmas as we know it, has been celebrated since the year 98 AD. It wasn’t until 350 AD that December 25th was chosen as the official observance of Christmas but the exact day of Jesus’ birth has never been determined.

The Bible says Mary and Joseph lived in Nazareth when Mary was visited by an angel who told her she was to give birth to a child who was the Son of God and was to be named Jesus.

To escape a tax being levied by the emperor, Mary and Joseph fled to Bethlehem on a donkey. When they arrived, Mary was great with child but they could not find lodging except in a stable where the virgin birth was given.

A great star appeared in the heavens with angels declaring “Fear not, a Savior has been born who is Christ the Lord. His birthday is still celebrated today.”

Don’t forget to teach your children the real reason for Christmas. And if you don’t have little ones at home anymore, make sure you take the time to remember His birthday, too. Here are some ways I help make it fun for my kids to connection the dots between “Christmas” and “Christ:”

In our house, Christmas morning is magical.  We play it up big on Christmas Eve, so by the next morning, my kids’ excitement level is bubbling over.  You need to make sure you’re up early and have the cameras and camcorders all in place.

My husband and I neatly place the Santa toys and stocking right in front of the Christmas tree. It’s wonderful seeing my kids walk down the hall and watch their eyes widen when they see their gifts. I don’t mind the wrapping paper flying in all directions or the chaotic noise of toys everywhere. I just love that there’s a celebration and everyone’s enjoying themselves.

Want to learn some specific tips about making Christmas morning special? From the perfect Christmas morning cup of coffee to the best way to bag up all of the mess that’s made, the Christmas Morning lens on Squidoo will help you plan the perfect day!