Martin Louthiros is considered to have established the Christmas tree tradition in Germany in the 16th century after being inspired by the sight of a tree under stars. By the mid-18th century, the Christmas tree custom had spread to many countries around the world. In 1882, the first Christmas tree was decorated in New York City at Thomas Edison's friend's house, and now over 72 million Christmas trees are decorated globally each year. Additionally, many Greek homes decorate small boats at Christmas due to an old Greek maritime tradition, rather than Christmas trees.

1. CUSTOMS
THE CHRISTMAS TREE
Martin Louthiros is considered to be the first one who
established the Christmas tree in Germany, in the 16th
century . It is said that he was so excited when he saw
the tree under starry sky that he decided to transfer this
picture inside his house. In the middle of the 18th century
this tradition had been expanded in many countries all
over the world. In 1882 the first Christmas tree was
decorated in New York City in the house of a friend of
Thomas Edison. Nowadays more than 72.000.000 Christmas
trees are decorated all over the world!!!!

2. A Greek tradition
THE CHRISTMAS BOAT
Many homes in Greece decorate small boats at Christmas,
because it is an old Greek custom. Greece is a maritime nation by
tradition, as shipping is the oldest form of occupation of the
Greeks. For this reason some families, especially in the islands
prefer this instead of a tree!!!!!!!