Christmas Trivia: History of the Christmas Wreath

The Christmas wreath is one of the most popular decorations at Christmas. You'll find them, of course, on front doors of homes and apartments as a sign of welcome, but also often used as a part of an Advent celebration or even hanging from the lamp posts in the city. The MerryStockings Bucilla Wreath Kits can be a welcoming sight in any place of your home, for year-round enjoyment.

The truth is there is quite a long history for the ol' wreath. Pagan cultures would have a gathering of wreaths at winter solstice, the shortest day of the year, a day that represented death and rebirth. They celebrated the end of the ever-shortening days and welcomed the promise of spring, all with celebrations and wreaths. Some would even add candles, symbolic of the sun.

In ancient times, wreaths were a symbol of success and importance, and were worn as headbands. Olympic athletes wear them as well as military leaders, signifying victory. 

In the Christian world, the circle shape with no beginning and no end is thought to mean everlasting life or eternal rebirth. Even the elements added to the wreath have meaning. The holly berries represent immortality and the cedar branch strength. We find all of this so fascinating!

Of course, the common Christmas wreath in our modern day carries much more simplicity for us. Hanging on the front door or in the window, it's like saying "Come in, you are welcome here!" And, that is a beautiful thing.