Christmas garlands have become a staple decoration for the holidays.

Like most Christmas decorations, garlands have come from a long history and have survived to embody what it is today. For thousands of years, Christmas Garlands were used as décor just like wreaths. This whole tradition of garlands was first brought to America by European immigrants. Initially, garland making was done right after the fall harvest ended.

Pine, spruce and cedar trees were among the common vegetation used to make garlands during these times. Forests were abundant back then and most people lived around them so it wasn’t a problem for them to obtain these. This practice was so common among settlers that most were able to create forty yards of garland in just one night.

When the 1800’s came, it set off a whole new trend by providing new materials to use in the garland. New designs came out and the ropes were decorated with hemlock, mountain laurel, holly, cedar blue berries, myrtle, as well as princess pine. During this time, most homes and establishments decorated their stores with these beautiful ropes in one form or another.

Today, with high tech technology within reach, people are able to create gorgeous holiday garlands to be used for decorations without even chopping down a single tree. If you shop for holiday decorations, some of the best garlands you will find are actually the artificial ones. During the 1900’s, the surge of plastic evergreens and hollies were used to create some of these fantastic garlands. Of course, before, the quality wasn’t as impressive. However, now, it’s hard to even tell whether a garland is authentic at first glance or not.

Tradition and elegance are just some of the things that Christmas garlands have come to represent. Especially now that they are available in artificial form, garlands have become one of the most flexible decoration pieces used you can use in your home. In fact, the garlands of today are mostly made with longevity in mind.

Being so flexible, Christmas garlands have become an enjoyable decoration piece to work with. They can be used to wrap around trees or looped around railings, or even serve as a main eye catcher in a barren wall or part of a room. You can also find prelit garlands available in most stores. When using these, there won’t be any need to worry about untangling the Christmas lights or worry about replacing the bulbs.

You can use these things easily; it is as simple as plugging and playing. If you want a garland to suit a theme or style in your home, there will be a garland that’s suited for your needs. Most garlands today have variety in color, length, and design. Thus, if you want to showcase your personality, then it is definitely possible.

Homeowners usually mix and match garlands. They buy an authentic one and then buy an artificial one as well. However, most would rather go for artificial ones because they can use it for the next year. No matter what your preference is, Christmas garlands is one way to show the Christmas spirit around your home during this all important season.