A common image on Christmas greeting cards, in movies and storybooks, and holiday figurines is of an adult and a child pulling an evergreen tree on a sled through the snow. This image depicts the classic tradition of going out into the forest to select and cut down the family’s Christmas tree. Unfortunately, I didn’t have this experience as a child. I grew up in a city, so we went to the neighborhood greenhouse to select a pre-cut Christmas tree. Growing up, I thought only people in the olden days cut down trees from the forest.
The use of evergreen trees in winter celebrations predates Christianity. Ancient Egyptians decorated their homes with green palm rushes during the winter solstice to symbolize the triumph of life over death. The Romans celebrated the festival of Saturnalia with evergreen boughs, signifying renewal and rebirth. In Northern Europe, pagan traditions embraced evergreens as symbols of fertility and protection. The Celts and Germans hung branches in their homes to ward off evil spirits.
It wasn't until the 16th century that the evergreen tree became associated with Christmas. Legend has it that Martin Luther was the first to decorate a tree with candles in the 1500s. Inspired by the beauty of stars twinkling through the trees, he wanted to recreate that scene for his family. The Christmas tree as we know it began to take shape in Germany during the 17th century. Families set up a tree in their homes and adorned it with candles, fruits, and nuts. In the 1840s, Queen Victoria played a significant role in popularizing the Christmas tree because an illustration depicting the royal family around one was published. Evergreen trees are now a staple of the American holiday season. According to the National Christmas Tree Association, 25 to 30 million trees are sold each year.
However, not everyone needs to buy a Christmas tree. Cutting a Christmas tree from the forest is still a tradition for many families and this is allowed on the White River National Forest. A $10 Christmas tree permit is required. Know the local rules of where the permit allows you to go. Permits are available at the Forest Service Ranger Stations or online. If you have a 4th grader in your family who has an “Every Kid Outdoors” pass, they are eligible for a free tree permit! Just show your pass at a Forest Service Ranger Station. Remember to bring all the necessary equipment. You will need joyful companions to share this tradition with and to serve as safety spotters, a saw, sled, rope, snowshoes, refreshments, and warm outdoor clothing.
Here are some rules to consider when you choose a Christmas tree. Do not cut down Colorado’s state tree, the Colorado Blue Spruce! Cut your tree from a cluster of trees, instead of choosing a lone tree. By harvesting from a cluster, the remaining trees will have more space to grow and become healthier. Also, only choose a tree that will fit in your house and cut the trunk as close to the ground as possible. It is wasteful to harvest a more mature tree that would need to be trimmed to fit indoors. Cutting the top off of large trees is prohibited. The part of the tree left behind will be unsightly once the snow melts and the tree will struggle to survive.
Selecting and harvesting your own Christmas tree this year might be a new experience or a long-standing family tradition for you. As you decorate your tree this year, reflect on the journey that brought this festive centerpiece into our lives.
Lara Carlson is the Senior Programs Director at Walking Mountains. She enjoys many outdoor winter traditions, including searching woods for the perfect Christmas tree.