When to Decorate the Christmas Tree and What Do Festive Ornaments Signify?
When to Decorate the Christmas Tree and What Do Festive Ornaments Signify?
Decorating the tree is the moment that officially triggers the holiday magic in any home. But have you ever wondered why we put a star on top or what the shiny baubles symbolize? Beyond the aesthetic aspect, every ornament carries a centuries-old story. In this article, we explore the ideal time for decorating and decipher the secret language of the Christmas tree.
When is the right time to decorate the tree?
There are several traditions, depending on the region and preferences:
- Christmas Eve (December 24): According to strict Christian tradition, the tree is decorated on Christmas Eve, waiting for Santa Claus. This keeps a natural tree fresh for the holidays.
- Saint Nicholas (December 5-6): Many families choose to decorate the house at the beginning of the month, with the arrival of Saint Nicholas, to enjoy the festive atmosphere for longer.
- First Sunday of Advent: An increasingly popular Western tradition marking the beginning of the Christmas waiting period (4 Sundays before).
- Start of December: For owners of artificial trees, December 1st is the unofficial start date of the festive season.
Symbolism of Ornaments: What do we put on the tree and why?
Each decoration plays a symbolic role:
- The Green Tree: Symbolizes eternal life and hope, remaining green even in the heart of winter. The triangular shape is often associated with the Holy Trinity.
- The Star on Top: Represents the Star of Bethlehem that guided the Three Magi to the birthplace of Jesus. It is a symbol of light and guidance.
- Candles and Lights: Originally real candles, now LEDs, these symbolize the "Light of the World" and the stars in the holy night sky.
- Red and Gold Baubles: Red recalls the apples from the Garden of Eden (symbol of knowledge) and the Savior's blood, while gold symbolizes royalty and divinity.
- Bells: Their sound announces the joy of birth and drives away evil spirits.
- The Wreath: The circular shape symbolizes eternity and God's endless love.
Frequently Asked Questions – Christmas Traditions
When should the Christmas tree be taken down?
Traditionally, the tree is taken down after St. John's Day (January 7) or, in some areas, only at Epiphany. Many prefer to keep it until after Old Rite Christmas.
Why do we use round baubles?
Round baubles are a modern representation of the apples that used to decorate trees in olden times, symbolizing the fruit of knowledge from the Garden of Eden, as well as abundance.
What is the meaning of tinsel?
Legend has it that a poor family had no decorations, and spiders spun webs on the tree. Jesus turned the webs into strands of gold and silver. Today, tinsel symbolizes that magic and spiritual wealth.
