The first circle of laurel leaves was probably formed some 2,700 years ago as a way to crown victors of the first Olympic Games. Originally called diadems and adorned with jewels, the wreaths were used as head garlands and were made by host cities of the games, according to Northwood Inspirations.

Historians are unsure when wreaths made their way from heads to doors, but it is believed those who attended the Olympic Games hung the wreaths on their walls as souvenirs.

Golden Ocala Golf & Equestrian Club will host a wreath workshop 7 – 9 p.m., Tuesday, Nov. 17 in the Gathering Room. Fee is $40 per person and reservations are required. The fee includes wine, coffee, soda, professional instruction and materials for a 24-inch decorative Christmas wreath. Professional instructor Janet Gravelin will be conducting the class.

Wreath making is considered an ancient and honored art with the Christmas wreath symbolizing life’s strength in overcoming the brutal forces of winter.

Ancient Wreaths Were Used to Celebrate Victory

Historians believe the practice of hanging wreaths on front doors may have stemmed from ancient Romans’ celebration of victory. The Egyptians, the Chinese and the Hebrews developed the custom of using evergreen wreaths in ancient times to symbolize life, according to Northwood Inspirations.

The use of evergreen in Christmas wreaths may have arose in northern Europe, Italy and Spain in the early 1800s, historians believe. The wreath’s two primary colors – red and green – both have deep symbolic origins linked to the Christian faith: Green expresses the movement of life through difficult winters and the belief in eternal life; red represents Jesus’ blood shed at the crucifixion.

In the 20^th century, wreaths were decorated with red ribbons on evergreen rings and hung from doors. Wreaths today are typically first hung after Thanksgiving and remain throughout the winter.

Call Donna Snow, Golden Ocala’s Director of Membership, at 352-402-4343 to make reservations.

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