Deck the Halls: The art of Christmas tree celebration

“There’s something about Christmas time… To see the joy in the children’s eyes… The way that the old folks smile… Says that Christmas will never go away…” are the lines from the famous song – Christmas Time by Bryan Adams which is dedicated to the most joyous time of the year.

Yuletide (popularly known as the days around Christmas) after all is that time of the year when the festive spirits are at its apex and the vibe around is mixed with sweet reflections and grand resolutions that came as lessons during the past year and will become learnings for the next year.

Amidst the ardour, Christmas tree celebration is a cherished ritual that brings families and communities together in the spirit of joy and togetherness, when all get together to adorn their favourite conifer tree at/around home to commence the spirit of festivities.

The tree makes for the central and iconic decoration during the holiday season. It symbolises life, renewal, and the everlasting love of God. The evergreen tree represents the hope of eternal life. Usually Christmas decorations come in various forms, each with its own significance and symbolism. Here are some Christmas decorations and their meanings:

Lights: Christmas lights represent the Light of Christ. They are a symbol of hope, joy, and the spiritual significance of Christmas. The tradition of putting up lights during the dark winter months also signifies the triumph of light over darkness.

Wreaths: Typically made of evergreen branches, wreaths symbolises eternity, growth, and the circle of life. The circular shape represents the eternal nature of God’s love.

Nativity Scene: The nativity scene depicts the birth of Jesus Christ and is a reminder of the true meaning of Christmas. It includes figurines of Mother Mary, Joseph, the baby Jesus, the shepherds, and the three Wise Men.

Stockings: Hanging stockings by the fireplace is a tradition that originated from the story of St Nicholas. It symbolises the generosity and gift-giving spirit associated with Christmas.

Mistletoe: Mistletoe is often hung in doorways during Christmas. According to tradition, a kiss beneath the mistletoe is a symbol of love, friendship, and goodwill.

Holly and ivy: These evergreen plants are associated with Christmas and represent everlasting life. Holly, with its red berries, is also said to symbolise the blood of Christ.

Bells: Bells are a symbol of joy and celebration. In the Christian tradition, bells are rung to announce the arrival of important events, and during Christmas, they signify the joyous news of Jesus’ birth.

Snowflakes: Snowflakes represent the winter season and the uniqueness of each individual. They represent purity and the idea that every person is special and different, much like the intricate patterns of snowflakes.

The Star: The star is usually put on the top of the tree is akin to the star of Bethlehem, which led the three men to the stable where Jesus was found.

 Candy Canes: The candy cane shape represents the shepherd’s stick which he uses to guide the sheep. These red and white coloured decoration piece symbolises Jesus’s blood and life after salvation.

The act of decorating the Christmas tree is a ritual filled with sentiment. Each ornament hung on its branches holds a story and together, these ornaments create a tapestry of family history.