A mixture of Traditions Many of the best-known aspects of Christmas are a blend of pagan and Christian traditions. Take those most recognizable of Christmas emblems: the Christmas tree and the Christmas stocking. They are relatively modern and were made popular by Christians. However, they date back hundreds of years to pagan practices. The contemporary idea of decorating a Christmas tree began in Germany in the 16th century. Yet, pagans brought trees indoors during the winter long before it became a Christian tradition.