Uncovering the Origins of the Advent Wreath: Discover the Meaning Behind Its Candle Colors!

Unlike the custom of decorating homes with mistletoe, holly, or ivy, the Advent wreath is specifically a Christian tradition. This practice likely began around 150 years ago in an orphanage in Hamburg, which was led by Mr. Johann Hinrich Wichern, a young teacher and theology student. As Christmas approached, the children would frequently ask him when they would celebrate Christmas. To answer their questions in the year 1839 , he created a version of today’s Advent wreath using an old wooden wheel, which featured 19 small red candles and 4 white candles. Each day, the children would light one of the small red candles, and on Sundays, they would light a large white candle. This lovely concept quickly gained popularity, first appearing in a Protestant church in Aachen, albeit with just four candles.

The Advent wreath initially became a lovely decoration in Protestant homes and churches in northern Germany, followed by neighboring countries. In the 20th century, it was embraced by the Catholic Church, mainly starting in southern Germany. Thanks to emigrants, the wreath spread to both North and South America.

What does a traditional Advent wreath look like?

A traditional Advent wreath typically consists of a green base made from conifer branches or hollies. The circular shape represents eternity. The wreath should also include something red—this color is a reminder of Christ’s blood, which was shed for humanity’s salvation. Both colors, green and red, symbolize life. Round apples can also be added as decorations, as they signify the fruit of life from paradise and are both round—like the wreath—and represent God’s goodness.

Typically, traditional Advent wreaths were hung on ribbons, but starting in the early 21st century, they have transitioned to wreaths that are placed directly on beautifully arranged tables.

Candle colors for Catholics, Protestants, Lutherans, and Anglicans

There are distinct differences in the colors and quantity of candles used. In our country, the liturgical color of Advent is purple, thus candles and ribbons should be purple. This color is associated with refinement, dignity, reflection, and penitence. Three purple candles are complemented by a fourth pink one, which symbolizes hope and the joy of new beginnings.

Protestant wreaths typically feature candles that are red and gold. The red symbolizes the blood of Christ, while gold represents life and goodness triumphing over evil. These colors can also often be found in Orthodox Christian families.

In Lutheran and Anglican churches, the wreaths are usually adorned with blue paint—a symbol of royalty. Some churches choose to use blue as a representation of the sky or water, reflecting the beginning of a new creation.

The fifth candle represents Christ

Another popular version of the wreath includes five candles—four of the same color that are lit on Advent Sundays, and the fifth candle in the center is white, symbolizing the birth of Christ. The color white signifies spiritual purity, Christmas joy, and represents Jesus Christ Himself.

White is the traditional festive color in Western Europe. A common arrangement in Protestant churches in the UK includes four red candles surrounding one white candle at the center.

These candles have names and are lit counterclockwise. The first is called the “candle of the prophets” (hope), the second is the “candle of Bethlehem” (love), the third is the “candle of the shepherds” (joy), and the fourth is the “candle of the angels” (peace and calm). The fifth candle is referred to as “Christ’s candle,” which can be lit on Christmas Eve and Christmas Day.