History of Russian New Year's "horovod" around the tree

[Oksana Burr]

  Hi,
 I'm trying to find information about the origin of the tradition at New Year's where "horovod" is formed around the tree and everyone dances and sings the song at the same time.  When I was little, I would always dance around the tree with other kids, but I never knew the meaning behind it.  Would anybody help me with finding resources on history about this tradition?  I thank you in advance.
 Russian  teacher
 Brighton High School,
  Oksana Burr
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