It’s that time of year where the yule log is burning, the wreath is hung, and the menorah is lit - all on the same fireplace mantel. There are so many styles and decorations that you can dress your mantel up in. So get your seasonal decor out; we’re going to be looking at the different kinds of holiday mantel decor that adorns your home interior.
Holiday Wreath
One of the most traditional forms of holiday decor: the wreath. The wreath dates all the way back to ancient Greek and Roman days. While it is true that most homes hang one out on the front door, the fireplace is still a suitable location for any interior wreath decor. So go all out with your wreath mantel. Combine the wreath with festive garland for maximum holiday cheer. Your fireplace will thank you for it.
Menorah on the Mantel
Another festive holiday tradition is the lighting of the menorah. For eight days and nights you can have a wonderful firelit display for your fireplace. Throw an afghan blanket around it to add some flair and improve the mantel’s look. Not only will this make your fireplace more inviting, it adds weight to the base of the menorah. White and blue colors are the most traditional, and maybe take the blanket off when lighting the candles. It helps you feel more organized for the holidays.
The Yule Log
“Snowflakes swirl down gently in the deep blue haze beyond the window. The outside world is a dream. Inside, the fireplace is brightly lit, and the Yule log crackles with orange and crimson sparks. There’s a steaming mug in your hands, warming your fingers. There’s a friend seated across from you in the cozy chair, warming your heart. There is mystery unfolding.” -Vera Nazarian
What better way to celebrate the yuletide than with a humble yule log. This traditional Christmas block of wood is just what the fireplace ordered. Like most holiday traditions, the yule log was a pagan ritual that was adopted by Christianity in time for the holidays. It is considered bad luck to have to relight it, and generally considered a custom to burn all the way through on the first attempt. Tradition aside, this is a fantastic way to add a whole new level of Christmas spirit to your home’s fireplace mantel.
Kinara Candles
During Kwanzaa, there is a traditional set of three red candles, three green candles, and one black candle in the center. This is called the Kinara, or translated from Swahili, literally “candle holder.” Each candle in the set represents a different aspect of Nguzo Saba, which is a community based school of thought in Africa. They are as follows:
- Umoja - Unity
- Kujichagulia - Self-Determination
- Ujima - Responsibility
- Ujamaa - Cooperative Economics
- Nia - Purpose
- Kuumba - Creativity
- Imani - Faith
All in all, the fireplace is an interesting part of the home to decorate, especially during the holiday seasons. So pick your theme and go with it, you can even rotate the holiday decor based on whichever traditions you want to celebrate. But if you have something near and dear to you then by all means.
