History
The Hidden Story: Why Red And Green Are Christmas Colours
Every Christmas, red and green dominate the season, appearing on decorations, lights, Santa’s suit, and even festive foods. But how did these two colours become the quintessential symbols of Christmas?
The answer lies in a rich blend of ancient customs, religious significance, artistic influence, and modern marketing.
Long before Christmas was celebrated, red and green were associated with winter festivities.
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EKO HOT BLOG reports that the winter solstice, marking the shortest day of the year, symbolised the return of longer days and new life.
Evergreen plants like holly and ivy, which remained vibrant throughout winter, became key symbols of renewal. Holly, with its striking red berries and glossy green leaves, held particular importance.
During the Roman Saturnalia festival, which honoured Saturn, the god of agriculture, homes were adorned with holly to bring luck and ward off evil spirits.
These traditions influenced early Christmas customs as Christianity spread across Europe.
The Christian Connection
Rather than erasing ancient customs, Christianity reinterpreted them. Holly took on new meanings in Christian teachings: its green leaves were seen as representing the crown of thorns worn by Jesus during his crucifixion, while the red berries symbolised his blood.
Evergreens, with their enduring vitality, came to represent eternal life in Christian tradition. As a result, red and green began to feature prominently in Christmas decorations and art.
By the Middle Ages, red and green were central to Christmas-themed art, often seen in church stained-glass windows and depictions of the Nativity. Artists frequently portrayed Mary in red robes surrounded by greenery.
The Victorian era cemented red and green as Christmas colours, with Charles Dickens’s A Christmas Carol popularising traditions like decorating with holly. Victorian Christmas cards, featuring natural designs in red and green, further established the colour palette.
Modern Marketing’s Role
The 20th century brought commercial influence. Coca-Cola’s 1930s advertising campaign famously portrayed Santa Claus in a bright red suit, often set against green backgrounds. These iconic images solidified the association of red and green with Christmas globally.
Red Green Christmas Colour
A Timeless Celebration
Today, red and green remain synonymous with Christmas, representing centuries of culture, tradition, and symbolism. From ancient Rome to modern advertising, these colours have become an enduring part of the festive season.
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