Are Wreaths Just For Holidays or All Year Long in New York State?

As you look at homes throughout our area, do you notice if people have wreaths on their doors? Check it out next time you are driving around the neighborhood. As the holidays approach, this is the big time of year when people start decorating their homes for the holiday season. One of the 'things' you might notice about these decorations is that there is a big wreath on the door (and other exterior locations).

Do people put up wreaths just at the winter holidays or all year long?

Good question. For some this is an annual tradition, beginning with the Halloween themed wreath, then the Harvest wreath for Thanksgiving and then the evergreen or Christmas/winter holiday wreath. For others, this is an all-year-long tradition. Each month people put up a different themed wreath. For instance, February will bring out the Valentine's Day wreath, March the St Patrick's wreath, etc.

So why do people put wreaths on the door? What is the reason behind this tradition?

Why do people do this? Do you know, do they or is it just a part of their annual family tradition? Here is the history behind the wreaths on the door, according to ChristmasForest.com:

Some believe that initially wreaths were hung on doors in Ancient Rome to represent victory. In Christianity, the Christmas wreath was used to symbolize Christ. The circular shape, with no beginning or end, represents eternity or life never ending.

Wait, where does the word wreath come from?

The word wreath comes from the Greek word diadema, which means a thing bound around and can be traced to Greek and Roman times where laurel wreaths were placed on people's heads in ceremony.

Where can you buy handcrafted wreaths near here?

Throughout the Hudson Valley over the next few weeks, you will also be seeing many organizations selling wreaths as fundraisers, from Boy Scout Troops to local fire departments and libraries.

Do you hang a wreath on your door (or mantle or car) during the holiday season?

Do you do it because you simply like the way it looks? Let us know in the comment section below. Or feel free to send us a photo of your wreath! We would love to see it.

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