Christmas Doors
Doors are a window into the soul of a home.
The tradition of decorating doors for Christmas has a long history, influenced by cultural, religious, and social developments over the centuries. Throughout history, the practice of decorating doors for Christmas has been a way for people to express their joy and celebration during the holiday season. The specific decorations and styles may vary, but the tradition of spreading holiday cheer through door decor remains an important and cherished part of Christmas celebrations.
Medieval Wreaths: The use of wreaths dates back to the medieval times when people would create them as a symbol of victory and honor. The circular shape represented eternity and the evergreen foliage symbolized life in the midst of winter.
17th Century: By the 17th century, the Christmas tree tradition had gained popularity in parts of Europe, and decorations began to evolve. People would hang cookies, nuts, and other edibles on their doors as well as on trees.
18th Century: In the 18th century, the concept of decorating doors and homes for Christmas became more widespread. The use of candles, fruits, and small gifts as decorations became common. Doors were adorned with garlands, ribbons, and sometimes even small gifts.
19th Century Victorian Era: The Victorian era in the 19th century saw a surge in Christmas celebrations and decorations. Elaborate ornaments, handmade crafts, and evergreen garlands became fashionable door decorations. This era also popularized the use of mistletoe and holly as door adornments.
20th Century: In the early to mid-20th century, Christmas door decorations continued to evolve with the advent of mass-produced ornaments and decorations. Wreaths made of artificial materials became popular, as did electric lights for both indoor and outdoor use.
Latin America: In many Latin American countries, the Christmas season is marked by vibrant and colorful decorations. Doors may be adorned with poinsettias, papel picado (elaborate paper decorations), and nativity scenes. In Mexico, for example, the "La Posada" tradition involves processions that stop at various homes, and doors are often adorned with candles and festive displays.
Scandinavian Countries: In Scandinavia, a region with strong Christmas traditions, doors are adorned with classic Nordic decorations. Evergreen wreaths, often made from local flora, are popular. In Sweden, the St. Lucia Day celebration involves the use of candles and lights to brighten doors and homes during the dark winter season.
Ethiopia: In Ethiopia, where Christmas is known as Ganna and is celebrated on January 7th, doors may be decorated with greenery and flowers. The celebration often involves church services, feasting, and the sharing of traditional foods.
Philippines: In the Philippines, where Christmas festivities start as early as September, doors are adorned with parol, ornate star-shaped lanterns made from bamboo and colored paper. These decorations symbolize the Star of Bethlehem and are a distinctive part of Filipino Christmas traditions.
Japan: While Christmas is not a traditional Japanese holiday, it has gained popularity, and decorations are becoming more common. In urban areas, doors might be adorned with wreaths, lights, and small Christmas trees.
16th Century Germany: The tradition of decorating evergreen trees, including doors, is often traced back to 16th-century Germany. It is said that devout Christians in Germany brought decorated trees into their homes to celebrate Christmas, and this practice eventually spread to other parts of Europe.
Now: Today, Christmas door decorations come in a wide variety of styles and materials. Wreaths are still popular, often adorned with ornaments, ribbons, and lights. Many people also decorate their doors with Christmas-themed signs, personalized door mats, and other festive items.
