Ah, Christmas in the UK! The time of year when the air is filled with the sweet smell of mince pies, the sound of carols rings through the streets, and every home gets transformed into a winter wonderland. And at the heart of this magical season stands the Christmas tree, a symbol of joy, hope, and togetherness. In this blog, we’ll take you on a journey through the art of decorating a Christmas tree, answering all your burning questions along the way. So, grab a cup of mulled wine, put on your favorite Christmas sweater, and let’s get started!
Why Do We Have a Tree for Christmas?
Before we dive into the nitty - gritty of decorating, let’s take a moment to understand the history behind the Christmas tree. The tradition of bringing evergreen trees indoors during the winter months dates back centuries. In pagan times, evergreens were seen as a symbol of life and rebirth during the cold, dark winter. As Christianity spread across Europe, the Christmas tree became a Christian symbol, representing the Tree of Life in the Garden of Eden.
In the UK, the Christmas tree gained popularity in the 19th century, thanks in large part to Prince Albert, the husband of Queen Victoria. In 1841, Prince Albert introduced the German tradition of the Christmas tree to the British royal family, and a trend was born. As the saying goes, “One good turn deserves another,” and the British public quickly embraced the charming custom of having a Christmas tree in their homes.
When to Put Up Your Christmas Tree
Now that we know why we have a Christmas tree, the next question is: when should we put it up? In the UK, there’s a bit of a debate on this topic. Some people like to put up their tree as soon as the Advent season begins, four Sundays before Christmas. This gives them plenty of time to enjoy the festive atmosphere. Others prefer to wait until closer to Christmas Day, usually around the second or third week of December.
There’s no hard and fast rule, but as the old English proverb says, “Make hay while the sun shines.” In the context of Christmas, this could mean getting your tree up early so you have more time to soak in the holiday spirit. However, if you’re worried about your tree looking sad and droopy by Christmas Day, you might want to hold off a bit.
Choosing the Right Tree
When it comes to choosing a Christmas tree, you have two main options: real or artificial. Real trees have a natural beauty and a wonderful piney smell that can’t be beat. But they do require a bit more maintenance. Artificial trees, on the other hand, are convenient and can be reused year after year.
If you opt for a real tree, you’ll need to decide on the type. Popular choices in the UK include the Nordmann Fir, which has soft, non - prickly needles and a good shape, and the Norway Spruce, which has a more traditional look with its pointed branches. When selecting your tree, make sure it’s fresh. Look for needles that are green and flexible, and give the tree a little shake – not too many needles should fall off.
How Long Does a Real Christmas Tree Last?
A real Christmas tree can last anywhere from two to four weeks, depending on how well you take care of it. To keep your tree looking fresh for as long as possible, follow these tips:
- Watering: As soon as you get your tree home, cut about an inch off the base to expose fresh wood. This will help the tree absorb water better. Then, place the tree in a stand that can hold plenty of water, and make sure to keep the water level topped up daily. A well - hydrated tree is a happy tree!
- Location: Keep your tree away from sources of heat, such as radiators, fireplaces, and direct sunlight. Heat can cause the tree to dry out quickly.
- Humidity: You can also try placing a humidifier near the tree or misting the needles with water occasionally to maintain a bit of moisture in the air around it.
How to Put Lights on the Christmas Tree
One of the most magical parts of decorating a Christmas tree is adding the lights. But it can also be a bit of a challenge. Here’s a step - by - step guide to help you do it like a pro:
- Choose the Right Lights: There are many different types of Christmas lights available, from traditional incandescent bulbs to energy - efficient LED lights. LED lights are a great choice as they use less energy, last longer, and produce less heat.
- Start from the Bottom: Begin at the base of the tree and work your way up. This will help prevent the lights from getting tangled.
- Weave the Lights: Instead of just wrapping the lights around the outside of the tree, try weaving them in and out of the branches. This will give your tree a more even and full look. Aim for about 100 lights per foot of tree height.
- Test the Lights: Before you start decorating the rest of the tree, make sure all the lights are working. There’s nothing worse than discovering a string of non - working lights after you’ve already put them up!
Decorating the Tree
Once the lights are on, it’s time to add the ornaments. This is where you can really let your creativity shine. You can use a mix of old family heirlooms, new ornaments you’ve bought, and even homemade decorations.
- Color Scheme: Decide on a color scheme for your tree. You could go for a traditional red and green look, a silver and blue winter wonderland, or a more eclectic mix of colors.
- Layering: Start with the larger ornaments at the back and on the lower branches, then add smaller ornaments towards the front and the top. This creates a sense of depth and dimension.
- Topper: Don’t forget the tree topper! A star or an angel is a classic choice, but you can also get creative with other unique toppers.
When to Take Your Christmas Tree Down
The holiday season comes to an end, and at some point, you’ll need to take your Christmas tree down. In the UK, many people take their trees down on January 5th, also known as Twelfth Night. This is the traditional end of the Christmas season, marking the arrival of the Three Wise Men in the Christian story.
As the saying goes, “All good things must come to an end,” but don’t be too sad. Taking down the tree is just a sign that the memories of a wonderful Christmas will stay with you throughout the year.
In conclusion, decorating a Christmas tree is a fun and rewarding activity that brings the whole family together. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or a first - time decorator, following these tips will help you create a beautiful and festive tree that will make your home the envy of the neighborhood. So, go ahead and embrace the magic of Christmas, and may your tree be filled with light, love, and laughter!
Merry Christmas from all of us here at Orangme!
