This Is the History Behind Yule Decorations and Symbols

Yuletide, also known colloquially as Yule, is a 12-day indigenous Germanic festival and holiday that typically falls sometime between November and January. This year it falls on Sunday, December 22 and ends on Thursday, January 2, 2020. Dating all the way back to the fourth century (thought the name itself didn't arise until the 13th century), Yule still holds tons of cultural significance. Today, in many Nordic countries (and Estonia) Yule is another word for Christmas, and the connections between the two are made clear thorough the resilience of certain customs, activities, and decor, like singing carols, making a Christmas ham, and decorating a Yule log. Wondering how the two holidays became connected? Yule was originally a pagan holiday that became Christianized, though some communities still celebrate it as it was traditionally; it's also similar to contemporary practices of Winter Solstice, since they both revolve around celebrating the rebirth of light and sunshine during the shorter, colder months. Whether you celebrate or you're curious to learn more about Yule symbolism, here are six yule decorating ideas and fun accent pieces to dress your home up for the occasion.