Advent Wreath Coloring Page: Free Printable for Kids

Immerse yourself in the spirit of Advent with the captivating tradition of creating your own Advent wreath. This age-old custom not only adds a splash of festivity to your home but also serves as a beautiful countdown to Christmas. At its heart lies the adept use of colors, each carrying its unique symbolism. Let's delve into the art of Advent wreath coloring, its history, and the intricate meanings behind the traditional hues.

Advent wreaths have been an integral part of Christmas celebrations since the 16th century. Originating in Germany, these circular garlands of evergreens—their color naturally preserved by the chill of winter—are adorned with candles, symbolizing the growing anticipation of the coming feast day. The traditional colors of Advent wreaths, red, purple, and pink, each hold profound significance.

Understanding the Traditional Colors

The color scheme of Advent wreaths is deeply rooted in religious symbolism, offering a subtle yet profound way to prepare the heart and mind for Christmas. Let's explore each color and its rich history.

Advent wreath coloring often begins with the three purple candles, representing the penitential season of Advent. Purple, or violet, is considered a royal color, befitting the anticipation of the arrival of the King of Kings. Historically, purple was one of the most precious dyes, made from the mucus of a certain sort of Mediterranean snail. Its rarity and the labor-intensive process made it a symbol of wealth and power. In the context of Advent, purple signifies the regal nature of Jesus Christ and our preparation for His coming.

The Significance of Purple

In many Christian denominations, purple is associated with repentance and penance. It serves as a reminder of our need for redemption and the gift of forgiveness offered through Christ's birth and ultimate sacrifice. During the four Sundays of Advent, the purple candles—which could be made from beeswax or poured into glass or metal candle holders—are lit sequentially, marking the passage of time and our growing anticipation.

Interspersed among the purple candles, a pink—or rose—candle adds a note of hope and joy. This candle, usually lit on the third Sunday of Advent, Gaza, represents the vigilant expectation of Mary, the mother of Jesus. Pink also signifies joy and rejoicing in the midst of the penitential season, capturing the duality of preparation and celebration, sadness and hope that permeates Advent. This color can be achieved through adding a dash of red to the purple, creating a striking contrast amidst the deeper hues.

The Rose Candle of Hope

The rose candle serves as a beautiful reminder of God's love and mercy, even in the midst of our brokenness. It calls to mind the importance of hope amidst life's struggles and the promise of new beginnings. In some churches, the pink candle is called the 'candle of rejoicing.' Regardless of its name, it reminds us of the joy that comes from the expectation of the Christ child's birth.

The Red Candle: The Climax of Advent

The final candle, added on Christmas Eve, is white or red. Red, symbolizing the blood of Christ and the cycle of life, marks the climax of Advent, pointing us towards the ultimate sacrifice that Jesus would make on our behalf. It is a powerful reminder of the cost of our freedom and the reason for the season.

The colors of the Advent wreath, therefore, tell a story of transformation. They guide us through a journey of anticipation, from the reflection of the penitential season to the joyful expectation of Christmas. By carefully selecting and arranging the candles, you too can participate in this ancient tradition, bringing the beauty of Advent wreath coloring into your home.

Adding Personal Touches to Your Advent Wreath

While the traditional colors hold deep significance, you're not limited to the standard purple, pink, and red. Many families choose to personalize their Advent wreaths with unique colors or additions. A blue candle might represent the marian theme or theindsay, while gold or silver accents can add a touch of festivity. Some even create themes around their wreaths, like winter wonderland or rustic charm. Remember, the key is to make your wreath a reflection of your family's values and traditions.

In conclusion, the art of Advent wreath coloring teaches us the joy of anticipation, the power of symbolism, and the beauty of tradition. As you light each candle this season, may you find solace in the expectation of the Christ child and the promise of Christmas morning. Happy Advent!