Christmas Symbols

1. Christmas Symbols Their History & Their Meaning

2. Christmas Tree • Evergreen trees have been a symbol since pagan times in England and 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.

3. 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.

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

5. 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.

6. 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.

7. 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.

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

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

10. 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.

11. 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.

12. 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.

13. 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.

14. 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.

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

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

17. 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.

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

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

20. 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.

21. Sources • http://www.apples4theteacher.com/holidays/christmas/christmas-symbols/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