Create your own advent wreath in Alsace
Advent is a season of preparation and anticipation of the joy of Christmas. In Alsace, this serene time of waiting is tastefully and creatively celebrated with an age-old tradition: the Advent wreath.
A FOLK TRADITION IN ALSACE
A handmade advent wreath is the centre piece on all festive tables and a source of light on winter evenings. This symbolic crown is made of beautifully decorated branches and four candles, created to illuminate the long nights of the season. The candles are lit one by one each week before Christmas, symbolising the four Sundays of Advent.
Take part in intimate workshops, where you can make your own wreath and discover the secrets of yesteryear, in places steeped in charm and tradition.
BEHIND THE SCENES AT A WORKSHOP
Gather around a large wooden table filled with oranges, cinnamon sticks, silk ribbons, and pinecones. Roll up your sleeves and start making your own Advent wreath.
The activity begins with preparing the base of straw and wire before attaching freshly cut fir branches from nearby forests. You’ll need dexterity and a bit of strength to bring everything together. Listen to the instructions, give it a try, and start again if needed. It takes some time to get the hang of it, but you'll soon be proud of your solid base!
Now that your hands smell like a Christmas tree, it's time to accessorise your wreath. First are the four bright-red candles, traditionally lit every Sunday of the Advent season. For the rest, let your imagination run wild. Combine different colours, materials, and textures. Here and there, you can add star anise, dried orange slices, or pinecones. Then, put on a final touch with a few carefully placed beads or ribbons. Have fun creating a wreath that matches your style.
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