From Grandma’s china to your child’s homemade ornaments, many holiday treasures have a glittering history unique to each family. While you may remember the year you knitted those stockings or lighted the menorah throughout your childhood, many other classic items that you have tucked away in storage also have long, storied pasts you may not know about. These five home décor staples are historical symbols of holidays past.
Candy Canes
These sweet treats date all the way back to 1670. The story goes that a German choirmaster provided sugar sticks to his fidgety young singers in an effort to keep them quiet during a ceremony (History, 2018). To maintain a religious connotation, they were bent into their signature shape, resembling a shepherd’s crook. Now, every December, they adorn trees, wreaths and even tablescapes (Good Housekeeping, 2020).
Holly
The holly plant has historical significance spanning global cultures and religions (History, 2018). The sharp leaves and berries symbolized Christ’s crown and blood to the Christians, while the Ancient Romans and Celts utilized it for winter solstice celebrations and the Ancient Druids regarded it as sacred. Today, hollies make a holiday appearance in everything from gift wrap to curb appeal (Southern Living, 2019).
Wreaths
Wreaths were popularized as headwear in Ancient Rome and Greece, but it was the Christians who first placed them on a door (History, 2018). The evergreen ring symbolizes strength and eternal life, and serves as a visual symbol of the Christmas spirit. Today, wreaths are one of the easiest and most enjoyable DIY projects out there, with modern takes incorporating everything from ornaments to ice skates (Good Housekeeping, 2020).
Mistletoe
This classic holiday plant’s romantic connotation goes way back, as it was historically used for fertility and as an aphrodisiac (History, 2018). The Ancient Greeks eventually coined the tradition of sharing a kiss underneath, a holiday custom still celebrated today. Whether hanging the real thing or crafting a DIY ornament (HGTV), mistletoe is sure to add a sweet and storied sentiment to your holiday décor.
Christmas Stockings
Believe it or not, Clement Moore’s “‘Twas the Night Before Christmas” inspired hanging your stocking with care (History, 2018). Since the poem’s publication in the early 1800s, placing a sock on the mantel has become a Christmas custom. From fur to flannel, there are plenty of unique buy- or DIY-able stocking options to match any décor (House Beautiful, 2020).
Pulling out the holiday décor can feel like a festive trip down memory lane. From cherished family heirlooms to unique customs and traditions, understanding and reflecting on old and new is a great way to tie up the current year and prepare for the next. Whatever your holiday home décor might be, soak in the nostalgia of the season and come New Years, break out the bubble wrap and pack those cherished memories back up safely.
Published on December 21, 2020
