Millions of people around the world are setting up their Christmas trees, marking the first step in preparing for Christmas Eve. This date is not just any day; it holds a special meaning and tradition, as reported by the Argentine News Agency. Tradition dictates that on December 8th, one should set up the tree, the Nativity scene, and decorate everything as desired. This date always coincides with the public holiday for the Feast of the Immaculate Conception of the Blessed Virgin Mary. On January 7th, after the celebration of the Three Kings' Day, the tree is taken down. Why is the Christmas tree set up on December 8th? There is no single version of why it is customary to set up the Christmas tree on December 8th, and it varies by culture. Taking another possible explanation, the Celts had the custom of decorating an oak for the arrival of the winter solstice, ensuring the return of the sun. On the other hand, it is said that on this day, the Norse people used to worship a tree to celebrate the birth of Frey, the god of the sun and fertility. While artificial trees made of plastic and other synthetic materials are very popular, some cultures use real pines if they can acquire them. What if I don't set up the Christmas tree on December 8th? The belief that it brings bad luck not to set up the Christmas tree on December 8th is more of a deep-rooted cultural superstition than a proven fact. Why did this belief originate? Feast of the Immaculate Conception: December 8th celebrates the Immaculate Conception of the Virgin Mary, a very important day in the Catholic calendar. Associating the setting up of the tree with this date gives it a religious and spiritual meaning. Symbol of renewal: The Christmas tree represents growth, renewal, and hope. Setting it up on this date symbolizes a new beginning and the arrival of better times. Family traditions: Many families have passed down the custom of setting up the tree on December 8th from generation to generation, making it a firmly rooted tradition. Of course, there are no studies to show that setting up or not setting up the tree on a specific date has any impact on luck or any other aspect of life. And according to the story that has come down to us, in Argentina, the custom of setting up the 'little tree' began in 1807, when an Irishman brought this habit to the country by decorating a pine in a public square. Nowadays, it is decorated with a great diversity of objects and elements, with the most traditional being balls, garlands, ribbons, and lights. This belief is based more on superstitions and cultural traditions than on concrete facts. Ultimately, each family is free to choose when and how to celebrate Christmas. Additionally, a star is placed on top, recalling the Star of Bethlehem, which represents the faith that should guide the life of a Christian. Many also adorn their homes.
