In tradition, the Christmas wreath is hung cheerfully on the home following the Thanksgiving holiday, and continuing through the Christmas holiday and the remainder of the winter months. It is a tradition in most cultures and families around that world, symbolizing life and prosperity through cold and scarce winters. The Christmas wreath is a popular decoration, second only to the Christmas tree. There is no question that the Christmas wreath is a holiday staple, but from where did this idea originate? Since the dawn of time, wreaths have been used historically as a symbol of health and power among various cultures around the world.

One of the first wreaths ever historically documented was that called a “diadem”, used in the Persian Empire. These wreaths were worn on the head and were embellished with jewels as a symbol of royalty. In Greek culture, the immortal god Apollo, known as the god of life and health, used the wreath as his symbol. The circular shape of Apollo’s wreath represented immortality. Long before the idea of gold, silver, and bronze medals, Apollo had inspired the use of wreaths made of bay laurel leaves to crown the winners of Olympic Games. The winning Olympians were seen as god-like in many ways, and their wreath was a symbol of their legendary immortality. Bay laurel leaves were bountiful in Greece, but when other cities begin to host the Olympics, they would present the champions with wreaths made of local leaves from their local trees. It is speculated that the winner’s of the Olympic Games would hang their wreath on a wall as a souvenir, thus, inspiring the historical beginning of today’s popular wall ornament, the Christmas wreath.

Historically, the wreath was used in Europe during the religious season of Advent. The Advent Christmas wreath was made of local branches of conifer trees, especially those of the fir tree. The circular shape of the wreath represents the circle of life as it relates the birth of Jesus Christ, the event around which the Christmas holiday is celebrated. In Europe, Italy, and Spain, the Christmas wreaths were made of the colors red and green. The evergreen itself symbolized the continuance of life through harsh winters, while the red berry or red ribbon accents represented the blood that Jesus Christ shed during his crucifixion. This symbol of the perseverance of life through tough times was also adopted by the Egyptians, Chinese, Hebrew, and Swedes, among many other cultures.

For hundreds of years, Christmas wreaths have adorned many homes around the world. You will see them hung on doors, both inside and out. You can also see them over a fire place mantle or hung in a window. Usually, the Christmas wreath is made of evergreens and it is decorated with pine cones, holly berries, fruit, and just about anything else you can imagine. Today, the wreath is as standard as a Christmas tree in the homes of people across the world. It is still a symbol of hope, health, and happiness throughout the holiday season and winter months. The Christmas Wreath brings joy to all who cross its path, and it is a fantastic way to share with others the good wishes of the coming season.