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What do Christmas decorations symbolise?
Whether you’re decorating the tree, the table or your gifts, there are certain items that simply complete the festive look.
Holly and ivy, Christmas crackers and trees and Santa Claus are synonymous with Christmas, here’s a look why.
- Christmas stockings – This tradition is based on a story from the 1800’s, when the father of three young maidens could not afford a dowry for his daughters to be married. From his castle, St Nicholas heard of the poor misfortune of the maidens and secretly threw a bag of coins down their chimney. It is said that the gold coins landed in the girl’s stockings that were hanging in the fireplace to dry.
- Christmas crackers – These originally were manufactured in London by a confectioner who drew inspiration from Paris, China and a fire to produce the much-loved Christmas cracker, which was originally a lollypop. The Christmas cracker we have today was perfected by the 1900s.
- Holly – Because of its shiny leaves and red berries, which retained their colours throughout the year, holly became a popular because of its aesthetics. It is used in wreaths to decorate homes during Christmas time.
- Santa Claus – Is based on the Patron St Nicholas who is known for his acts of generosity and kindness. In Holland he became known as “Sinter Klaas.” During the 18th and 19th century, the big smiling white-bearded man became synonymous with Christmas around the world.
- Angel at the top of the Christmas tree – The fairy at the top of the Christmas tree was originally a little figure of baby Jesus. This later was adapted into an angel and in some countries a fairy.
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