‘Tis the season to venture from the orange and black of Halloween to the holiday colors of green, red and gold.
The holiday season is filled with many magical and vibrant colours to celebrate the festivities.
Traditionally the colours of Christmas have been green, red and gold. But why?
There are many thoughts as to why these pigments are classically associated with the holiday, some of which date back to the days of Adam and Eve.
Hopeful hue
With the winter season coming after fall, trees are bare and the flowers wilted, it is a wonder why the color green would be associated to this time of year.
It is precisely for that reason that green, which is vibrant in the holly plant, winter ivy and evergreen trees, is dominant at this time. Green is used to bring back the life into the dark days of winter. And in doing so, it allows us to be reminded of the growing earth, upcoming changes and the bright spring days to come.
Ancient symbolism
From the jackets in Santa’s closet to the robes of the bishops, the colour red brings the bold reminder of religion during the holiday season.
Red is thought to be associated to the apples in Eden and of the days of Adam and Eve. It also has links to new life, sacrificial deaths, and blood within Christianity.
Additionally, red is visible on the berries that pop out of the holly plant and the roaring fire that keeps us warm during the cold winter days.
An elegant reminder
Traditionally, gold was seen to be affiliated with the star that led the Three Wise Men. It was also associated with the warmth of fire and glow of candles. Gold is a reference of elegance and loyalty. It reminds us of family, friends and the comfort of being together at this time of the year.
The décor of the holiday season brings the opportunity for people to be creative. The many shades of purple, blue and even silver have been included in the seasonal palette to enhance the effects. Regardless, the core colours of red, green and gold are always present to remind us that it’s the reason for reflection, tradition and remembrance.
– Shana Vanderark is an author and mother. Follow her on Instagram @ShanaMamaa
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