Hidden meanings behind your favorite Christmas decorations

You decorate the tree every holiday season because that's just what everyone does. But there are hidden meanings behind some of your favorite Christmas decorations. Take it from the folks at Good Housekeeping and The Spruce. Let's start with the iconic Christmas tree.

It's said the tradition began because, in many countries, evergreens are believed to ward off evil spirits and illness, according to history.

Wreaths aren't all about making a statement on your front door. They're a circular symbol of love and rebirth, according to The Spruce. However, Christians think wreaths represent thorns worn by Jesus, and the tiny red berries are his blood, according to The New York Times.

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At the start, berries on a holly bush were white, until they were stained red by the blood of Christ, according to legend, and the experts at How Stuff Works.

The candle is a mirror of starlight. The mirror helps reflect our thanks for the star of Bethlehem from the Gospel of Matthew, according to The Spruce.

Stockings are now stuffed with gifts after St. Nicolas heard of the tough time a widowed father was going through long ago, so he slid down the chimney and filled his daughter's stockings with gold coins. That's according to Smithsonian.

We give people gifts during the holiday season because the three wise men did to honor the birth of Jesus, according to The Spruce.

However, gone are the days of bringing just one gift!