Stimuli

The Christmas Wreath is one of my favourite decorations for the holidays. A wreath on the door is a symbol of the Christmas Spirit and a beacon of warmth and welcome for all who pass by. Have you ever wondered about the origins of the Christmas Wreath?
The tradition of the wreath goes back to ancient times when the Druids would wear mistletoe and holly leaf wreaths upon their heads. They thought that there was magical power to be found in these plants that survived the harshest of winters.

The early Germanic peoples also had a tradition of wreath making. By forming evergreen plants into circular shapes they were creating symbols of power. The circle shape itself is one of strength as it has neither a beginning nor an end. The evergreens also symbolized strength because of their ability to thrive through the winter. The ancient peoples used the evergreen wreaths which exemplified the power of life to help ward off the cold dark forces of winter.
        
Much later with the rise of Christianity, wreaths took on religious significance. They played, and still play, an important role in celebrating Advent, the four weeks before Christmas. The Advent Wreath typically sits on the dining table and consists of five candles in a circle of greens. During advent one candle is lit every night for a week until Christmas Eve when the candle in the middle is lit symbolizing the birth of Christ.

So how was it that wreaths came to hang on our front doors? Some people believe this tradition started in Rome where the people used wreaths as a symbol of military victory and would hang them outside their homes on the front door. The Roman Empire was so vast it would explain how this tradition became so widespread across Europe.  
                                  
Today Christmas wreaths have become more decorative than anything else. You can find wreaths to suit any type of décor made from an endless variety of materials. Even the traditional shape has been challenged with the appearance of some square wreaths in recent years. Whatever style you choose, traditional, minimalist, whimsical or modern your wreath should hold a place of special importance in your Christmas decorating as it brings you and everyone else who enters your home not only a sense of welcome but  affirmation of the Christmas Spirit that waits within. 

by Christna Kristensen
Stimuli Magazine Contributor

Photo Credits:
Top Image: wonderofsummer.blogspot.com
Middle: celebrationsandtraditions.com
Bottom: architecturas.com