German Christmas Tree Decorating Ideas

The German Christmas Tree is the traditional decoration that has been adopted by cultures in Europe and the United States. The old fashioned German Christmas tree looks magical with colorful lights and ornaments of blown glass, wood and straw.

The decorated evergreen tree was used in Pagan rituals before it was used as a Christmas symbol According to legend it was German Christian Reformer Martin Luther who began the tradition of decorating trees celebrate Christmas, over 500 years ago.

Martin Luther decorated the evergreen tree with candles. The use of candles to illuminate the pine branches . The candles have been replaced by strings of electric lights, which are safer to use because there is less risk of fire. The strings of lights may be multi-colored or just one color, depending upon preference.

The lights should be strung onto the tree after the tree has been set up in its stand. For an old fashioned look bubble lights can be strung on the tree. Bubble lights are a specialty light and may not be at all retailers but they can be found in some home stores, hardware stores or online.

Christmas ornaments made of blown glass are a traditional look for a German Christmas tree. The ornaments of blown glass are made with special molds. The glass ornaments are fragile and breakable, but can last for years with proper care.

Glass blown ornament in shapes of angels, Santa Claus, musical instruments, teddy bears, pine cones and other shapes give the Christmas Tree an individual personality. The ornaments may reflect the interests and hobbies of the family members. A Christmas pickle is a traditional ornament. The glass pickle in hidden in the branches and is supposed to bring luck to the person who finds it.

Wooden and straw ornaments are traditional ornaments that come in different shapes that reflect the personality of the family. Straw ornaments are especially lightweight and can be used at the end of the branches or at the top branches of the tree.

A garland of ribbon or tinsel adds a festive finishing touch to the tree. The garland is loosely wrapped around the Christmas Tree so it rests on the branches.

The Christmas Tree is crowned with an ornament on the very top. Classic toppers include an angel or star.

If you have a train set, a toy train underneath the tree is a playful touch that adds to the Christmas decorations.

The German style Christmas Tree is a beautiful tribute to the spirit of Xmas.

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