From Royal Roots to Community Celebrations: The Magic of Christmas Tree Festivals

In December 1800, ‘good Queen Charlotte’, the German wife of King George III, set up what is thought to be the very first English Christmas tree in the grand setting of the Queen’s Lodge, Windsor. Surprisingly, it took another forty years or so for the Christmas tree to become fashionable in wider British society.

In 1840, Queen Charlotte’s granddaughter, Queen Victoria, married her handsome new husband, Prince Albert. He was eager to introduce her to some of his favourite German traditions - one of which was decorating a tree on Christmas Eve. Several years (and several children) later, a popular Christmas etching depicted the royal family gathered around their Christmas tree, helping to spark a surge in the tree’s popularity across the country.

Today, Christmas trees aren’t just reserved for the fashionistas of high society. Instead, most homes, public buildings, churches, and workplaces proudly dress their trees in festive finery - ’tis the season to be jolly, after all!

This brings us nicely to the aptly named Christmas Tree Festivals. Although they’ve been taking place for several decades, their popularity has grown in recent years, including in CCT churches. These festivals bring together organisations, schools, and individuals, each decorating and sponsoring their own tree. The trees are displayed for a short period and are often accompanied by tabletop sales, carol singing, and the odd mince pie or two! It’s a wonderful way to bring families and communities together, celebrate tradition, raise funds, and embrace the festive spirit.

Find out more about the Christmas events and Christmas Tree Festivals taking place in CCT churches here - and why not visit a Christmas Tree Festival near you? Whether it’s a dazzling display of creativity, a chance to support your local community, or simply an opportunity to soak up some festive cheer, there’s no better way to step into the spirit of the season.