Why are red and green the colors of Christmas? And what does Coca Cola have to do with it?

Ithe red and the green, today undisputed symbols of the Christmas, have deep roots that are intertwined with history and traditions. Although their consolidation in the collective imagination occurred in the 1930s, thanks to the famous advertisements of Coca-Cola with Santa Claus dressed in red on green backgrounds, the origins of this chromatic association date back to much older times.

What medieval traditions influenced red and green?

In Middle Ages, in Western Germany, it was common to decorate a fir tree on December 24, called the “tree of paradise,” to celebrate Adam and Eve. trees, often evergreens such as firs and pines, were decorated with red fruits, especially apples and pomegranates. The use combined the vitality of green with the vivacity of red, a combination that reflected symbols of life and abundance.

Another central element was the hollies, widely used during winter holidays thanks to their red berries and green leaves. Bruce David Forbes, professor of history of religions, highlighted how natural elements were already perceived as typical decorations for holidays.

How did religious architecture reinforce color association?

Between the 14th and 16th centuries, the use of the red and green It was not limited to Christmas celebrations, but permeated religious architecture. Spike Bucklow, professor of design and material culture, has highlighted how these colours were often used to paint the partitions of churches. The structures, which separated the presbytery from the naves, helped to strengthen the symbolic link between red, green and spiritual contexts, making them part of the collective imagination.

What was the role of Coca-Cola?

The role of Coca-Cola was instrumental in consolidating definitely the red and the green like Christmas colors. In 1931, the famous company launched a dealer which depicted Santa Claus in his traditional red suit on a green background. combination chromatic, repeated in each subsequent campaign, has deeply rooted the association of colors with the festive and consumerist spirit of Christmas celebrations.

What symbolic meanings do red and green have?

Il Verde is traditionally associated with life, rebirth and hope, while the red represents energy, passion and, in the Christmas context, love and generosity. The meanings intertwine with the message of renewal and unity that characterizes Christmas, making the color combination particularly evocative.