The Christmas Wreath - a short history
The Christmas wreath is a cherished symbol that graces doors, mantels, and walls worldwide during the Christmas season. While the modern wreath is often associated with festive cheer, its origins reach far back into ancient history, intertwining with traditions from various cultures, including the Celts. In this blog post, we’ll explore the fascinating history of Christmas wreaths, their connection to Celtic customs, and the enduring symbolism that makes them such a beloved part of the season.
Ancient Beginnings: Wreaths in Early Cultures. The wreath dates back thousands of years and was used by ancient civilisations as a powerful symbol. Ancient Greeks and Romans crafted wreaths from olive, laurel, and oak leaves to honour gods and heroes or celebrate victory and peace. These wreaths symbolised strength, achievement, and eternity.
In ancient Europe, circular wreaths made from evergreens became especially meaningful. The unbroken circle of the wreath, without a beginning or end, symbolised eternity and the cyclical nature of life—a theme shared by many early cultures. This circular shape would later become an essential feature in Christmas wreaths.
Celtic Influence: Sacred Evergreens and the Wheel of the Year. For the Celts, evergreens such as holly, ivy, and mistletoe held deep spiritual significance. In Celtic traditions, these plants represented the endurance of life through the cold winter months. The Celts revered evergreens for their ability to stay vibrant and green even in the dead of winter, symbolising resilience, protection, and the hope of returning warmth and life in the spring.
Wreaths crafted from these sacred plants were used during winter solstice rituals to honour the rebirth of the sun. The winter solstice, or Yule, marked the longest night of the year and celebrated the return of the sun’s strength. Celtic people hung wreaths in their homes as a reminder of the sun’s promise to grow stronger each day after the solstice, bringing life back to the land.
The Celtic “Wheel of the Year” further emphasised the circular form of the wreath. This ancient calendar recognised the cyclical nature of seasons, with key festivals marking transitions throughout the year. The wreath, shaped like a wheel, symbolised this never-ending cycle and the unity between nature and human life.
Christian Influence and the Advent Wreath. As Christianity spread across Europe, elements of Celtic and Roman traditions blended into new customs. The Advent wreath became a popular Christian tradition during the 16th century in Germany. Made of evergreens and often decorated with four candles, this wreath marked the four weeks leading up to Christmas and symbolised hope, love, joy, and peace. The circle of the Advent wreath echoed earlier meanings, now representing God’s unending love and the eternal life promised in Christian faith.
The Modern Christmas Wreath. Over time, Christmas wreaths evolved to take on decorative purposes as well. The Victorians popularised hanging wreaths indoors and on doors, adorning them with holly berries, ribbons, and pinecones. These ornaments not only added beauty but also incorporated elements of symbolism. Red berries, for example, signified the blood of Christ in Christian symbolism, while the evergreen branches continued to represent life and resilience.
Today, Christmas wreaths are crafted in diverse styles, incorporating natural elements like pinecones and dried flowers or featuring bold ornaments, lights, and colours. Whether traditional or contemporary, these wreaths remain a timeless expression of holiday spirit, symbolising the warmth, joy, and togetherness of the season.
Celtic Wreath-Making: A Modern Revival. For those who appreciate a more eco-friendly holiday decoration, wreaths inspired by Celtic traditions offer a sustainable and meaningful alternative. By choosing local, natural, and foraged materials—such as holly, ivy, and fir branches—you can create a wreath that honours the Celtic reverence for nature and celebrates the spirit of the season in a sustainable way. This practice reflects the traditional Celtic appreciation for the natural world, infusing your Christmas decor with layers of history and symbolism.
From ancient Greece to Celtic Europe and into the heart of Christian tradition, the Christmas wreath has gathered centuries of history and meaning. It serves as a reminder of life’s cyclical nature, the beauty of resilience, and the enduring warmth of the festive season. When we hang a wreath today, we connect with the past and carry forward a legacy that stretches across cultures and centuries.
This Christmas, why not create a wreath that reflects both tradition and sustainability? Whether crafted with foraged greenery or decorated with natural elements, your wreath can honour the rich heritage of this cherished symbol while embodying the values of resilience, hope, and renewal.
It’s all about learning. For those interested in learning how to create a Christmas wreath rooted in history and tradition, check out the classes in November and December. Embrace the beauty of nature and the spirit of the season with a meaningful, handcrafted wreath that carries the magic of Christmas right into your home.