O Christmas Tree — Lyrics, History & Fun Facts

O Christmas Tree, known originally as 'O Tannenbaum' in German, is a beloved holiday carol that pays tribute to the evergreen fir tree as a symbol of faithfulness and constancy through the winter season. The song's simple yet elegant melody has made it one of the most enduring Christmas carols in the Western tradition. It is sung in homes, churches, and public gatherings throughout the holiday season worldwide.

The History of "O Christmas Tree"

The German folk song 'O Tannenbaum' has roots dating back to the 16th century, but the modern lyrics were written by Ernst Anschutz in 1824, adapting an earlier version by Joachim August Zarnack from 1819. The original poem was not about Christmas at all but rather praised the evergreen's faithfulness compared to a fickle lover. Over time, the song became firmly associated with Christmas as the tradition of decorating Christmas trees spread across Europe and America. The melody has been borrowed for numerous state songs, university fight songs, and even political anthems around the world.

Fun Facts About "O Christmas Tree"

• The original poem was about a faithful lover, not a Christmas tree
• The melody has been used for the state songs of Maryland, Michigan, Iowa, and New Jersey
• The tradition of the Christmas tree that the song celebrates was popularized by Queen Victoria and Prince Albert in the 1840s
• The song's melody was also used for the anthem of the British Labour Party, 'The Red Flag'

Movies & TV Appearances

"O Christmas Tree" has been featured in the following movies and television specials:

• A Charlie Brown Christmas
• A Christmas Story
• Miracle on 34th Street

Listen to "O Christmas Tree"

You can listen to "O Christmas Tree" on all major streaming platforms including Spotify, Apple Music, Amazon Music, and YouTube Music. Search for the original version by Traditional German or explore the many popular covers recorded over the years.