It’s beginning to look a lot like Christmas! No, seriously – Christmas is less than 5 days away. From delicious food to gift-giving, dressing up for the occasion, and more, we love getting into that holiday spirit and taking part in Christmas traditions! For today’s festive feature we’re focusing on none other than Christmas tree décor – specifically tree toppers and the tradition behind them! If you want to learn a lil’ bit more about the tradition, where it came from, and just what tree toppers are – we don’t suggest you stop here. Keep reading to learn more and hype yourself up on that holiday spirit.

What Are Tree Toppers?

Christmas tree toppers are what tie the tree’s design and story together — and they are the last chance you have at making a statement with your tree. Whether you’re having a chic barn party or classic Christmas soiree, your tree topper will make that final statement. Tree-toppers can take any form, but the most common shapes are a star – representing the Star of Bethlehem, a Christmas angel), fairies, snowflakes, or a Santa Clause figure.

No tree, even those perfectly coiffed with your favorite ornaments, is complete without a Christmas tree topper.

Where Did the Tree Topper Tradition Come From?

Decorative Christmas ornament tree-toppers (tree toppers or finials) have their origin in the Victorian era, when Christmas trees became popular in England. Queen Victoria and her husband, Prince Albert were credited with bringing the first Christmas tree to Windsor Castle − decorating the tree with angels, tinsels, silver wire ornaments, candles, and small beads. Queen Victoria was very popular with her subjects, and what was done by this beloved Royal Family immediately became fashionable – not only in Britain but with fashion-conscious East coast American high society.

The Tree Topper Tradition Today

In today’s day and age, Christmas trees are decorated in all shapes and sorts. From the classic ornaments to embellished and colorful decorations, and even decorations inspired by pop culture – there is a tree for anyone and everyone in the 21^st century. It is always great to stick to the classics and out-do your tree-decorating sesh from last year – but, it’s fun to spice it up sometimes.

However, you decorate your tree and celebrate the holidays this festive season, we, at The Modern East, wish you a very Merry Christmas!