Christmas Symbols Their History Their Meaning Christmas Tree

Christmas Symbols Their History & Their Meaning

Christmas Tree • Evergreen trees have been a symbol since pagan times in England France that winter would come to an end. • The first decorations used were candles, apples, paper roses, candy, and cookies. • A star on the top represents the Bethlehem star when Jesus was born.

Candy Cane • The first candy canes were a solid white color and straight. • The earliest crooked candy canes appeared in Germany in 1670. • Striped candy canes weren’t made until after 1900.

Candles • Candles represent light— to light the way for others. • They were first used as lights on the Christmas tree.

Poinsettia • The first U. S. ambassador to Mexico brought this flower to the U. S. in 1825. His name was Dr. J. R. Poinsett. • They are associated with Christmas because of a Mexican legend.

Bells • Bells are rung to make announcements or for celebrations. • The first bells were made in China. • Some people wear clothing with little bells attached to them.

Santa Claus • In Holland, Dutch children believed Sinter Klaas would fill their wooden shoes with candy and treats. • When many Dutch people settled in America, Sinter Klaas became Santa Clause, someone who brings toys and treats to children who have been good all year.

Angels • Angels are a traditional part of most religions. • Some people like to decorate their homes and trees with angels.

Nutcrackers • Nutcrackers can be used as a tool to open or crack nuts. • Wooden figures became popular in the 16 th century in Europe. • The soldier figure is the most popular figure.

Carols • Caroling began in medieval times when people would sing and dance. Early carols weren’t considered holy enough to sing inside a church and so people sung outside. • Music is a special part of the Christmas season around the world.

Stockings • These are associated with Sinter Klaas, who wanted to remain anonymous and help a poor family. He threw gold coins down their chimney and they fell into a stocking that was hanging their to dry.

Christmas Cards • Cards are used to send notes of good wishes. • The custom of sending Christmas cards began in 1843 in England. • The British post office used to deliver cards on Christmas morning.

Mistletoe • Mistletoe remains green throughout the year. • It is a custom to hang a piece of it in a doorway and people can kiss each other while standing under the mistletoe.

Food • The tradition of cookies began in Roman times when people gave sweet cakes to their senators. • Gingerbread houses have been made since the 1300’s. • Hot wassail is a popular drink at Christmas.

St. Nicholas • St. Nicholas was a real person. • He was a kind bishop who brought presents to children and needy people.

Wreath • In ancient Rome, wreaths were used as signs of victory. • There are two kinds of holiday wreaths—the advent wreath and decorative wreath.

Holly • Holly is a spiny-leafed shrub with red berries that remains green throughout the year. • Since pagan times it has been a symbol that winter would end. • French and English families hung holly over their doors to symbolize that their family celebrated Christ’s birth.

Lights • Lights represent Jesus as the “Light of the World. ” • Lights also represent twinkling stars.

Gifts • Gifts were brought to the baby Jesus by the wise men. • It has become a tradition to give gifts as Christmas.

Nativity • The nativity represents the birth of Jesus. Animals are usually part of a nativity scene. • The scene was first created in 1224 by St. Francis in Italy.

Sources • http: //www. apples 4 theteacher. com/h olidays/christmassymbols/index. html • http: //z. about. com/d/homeschooling/ • Let’s Celebrate Christmas by Peter and Connie Roop • Holly, Reindeer, and Colored Lights: The Story of the Christmas Symbols by Edna Barth