It's the most wonderful time of the year. The holiday season is a time that's centered around family gatherings and traditions.

We've been celebrating the same way for so long that it's hard to recall how some of these classic traditions came about in the first place. Like Christmas trees for example.

How did decorating a Christmas tree become a tradition?

According to History.com, Germany is credited with starting the Christmas tree tradition back in the 16th century, with Christians decorating trees in their homes. Martin Luther, a Protestant reformer, was inspired by the sight of stars twinkling through evergreen trees on a winter night and is said to have been the first to add candles to a tree. Christmas trees didn't really become popular in the U.S. though until the 1860's.

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Drive-thru light displays are an easy way for families to enjoy the magical sights from the comfort and warmth of their vehicles.

RELATED: Top Toys Making Kids' Wishlists in 2024

These days there are more traditions than decorating your Christmas tree. And if you're looking to start a fun, new tradition with your family, we've got some great ideas for you.

10 Unique Holiday Traditions to Try

If you're looking to start a fun, new tradition with your family, we've got some great ideas for you.

Gallery Credit: Danielle Kootman

READ MORE: Classic Holiday Treats We LOVE Seeing Back on Store Shelves

Speaking of trying new things this holiday. Fast food chains are getting in on the fun too!

15 New Menu Items Coming to Fast Food Chains for Holidays

From sandwiches served on pickles to turducken burritos, here are what some of the most popular fast food joints are serving up in the coming months.

Gallery Credit: Rob Carroll

When it comes to another holiday tradition, gift giving, these are the toys that are making kids wishlists. Things certainly have changed. Remember what toys were popular when you were a kid?

LOOK: The top holiday toys from the year you were born

With the holiday spirit in the air, it’s the perfect time to dive into the history of iconic holiday gifts. Using national toy archives and data curated by The Strong from 1920 to today, Stacker searched for products that caught hold of the public zeitgeist through novelty, innovation, kitsch, quirk, or simply great timing, and then rocketed to success.

Gallery Credit: Jacob Osborn & Peter Richman