With the holiday season in full swing, I thought it would be fun to look at the history and folklore behind a very common symbol these days–the Christmas wreath. Whether you make one from scratch from foraged materials in your yard, or purchase a plastic one at the store, wreaths make a very prominent statement as we prepare for family time. Where did the idea come from? What do they symbolize? What are they made of? I hope by the end of this little article, you will have some answers!
The concept of the wreath is as ancient as we are people. Romans and Greeks used wreaths to adorn the heads of champions, warriors, and dignitaries. Using wreaths as winter decorations goes back to pre-Christian times in Germany and Scandinavia. The use of evergreens signified strength and perseverance through the rough winter months of cold and darkness. These plants remain evergreen so must we! When Christians became familiar with the concept of wreaths, they added the meaning of God’s never-ending love to the culture.
Many of you are most likely familiar with the concept of the advent wreath, which involves placing four candles around a wreath, signifying the weeks of Advent leading up to Christmas Day. There is often a white fifth candle in the center which is generally lit on Christmas Day. This tradition was started in Germany and made its way across Europe and into the United States in the 19th century.
Traditionally winter or Christmas wreaths are made of evergreen branches and occasionally holly. Originally in Germany when the concept of the Christmas tree also evolved, folks would trim their trees to a triangle shape and use the remaining boughs to create decorative wreaths. Nothing was going to waste! Nowadays wreaths can be made of any number of materials from grapevines sporting colorful bows and pinecones, all the way to burlap, fabric, and other recycled materials. Some are specific to Christmas and other holidays, while others take on a more wintery vibe for the entire season.
If you would like to give wreath making a go, here are a few tips. First, if you do not have a wreath base already, craft stores such as Michaels sell a variety from grapevine to wire to even wood or plastic circles to work from. You can also fashion a base from any sturdy vines such as wild grapes or even the evergreens themselves! A hot glue gun will be your best friend regardless of what materials you are using, be sure to remember that hot glue is actually quite hot–I often do not and have the callused fingers to prove it! Finally, make sure that you have a method to hang your new wreath whether it is a sturdy piece of twine, a metal hoop, or even a bungee cord. Whatever you choose needs to be strong enough to hold the weight of the wreath and keep it up even with an opening and closing door. If you need inspiration, Pinterest is a constant source of ideas for me. Simply search “Christmas wreath ideas” and you’ll be overrun with fun ideas.
Whether you make or buy a wreath this holiday season, I hope you find a chance to stop and admire their simple beauty. For centuries these circular hoops have given purpose and hope to an often dark and sad time of year. I wish you all the happiest of Christmases and a joyful New Year!
