The first documented decorated Christmas tree appeared in 1510 in Riga, Latvia. While there may be others that claim the first Christmas tree before or after that date, the folks from Riga say they have some documentation by the Order of the Blackheads (a longtime guild) supporting the date and location. Additionally, there is a plaque in the town square confirming the claim.

At the same time, the person from Riga said it is a “legend” (similar to the Finish legend of Santa Claus) that Riga has and is promoting their city as the home of the first Christmas tree. And, at this point, no other location has challenged that claim.

Documentation suggests that the first tree was a fir tree and was decorated with dried fruits, apples, candies and things of medieval style.