From Hamburg to Vienna — history & flower floristry tips
Four candles, evergreen branches, the scent of resin — for many people, the Advent wreath is simply part of the Advent season. And its history is more recent than you might think.
The history of the Advent wreath
The origin of the Advent wreath is often traced back to a wreath associated with the Hamburg theologian Johann Hinrich Wichern. In a children’s home, he used a large wooden ring with several candles to visibly count the days until Christmas — small candles for the weekdays, larger ones for the Sundays.
Over time, this “counting wreath” developed into the simplified version with four candles — one for each Sunday of Advent. The green wreath made of fir and similar foliage, as we know it today, gradually became common in many households across the German-speaking world during the 20th century.
In Austria, the Advent wreath is now a cherished part of the Advent season in many families — whether traditional with fir branches or modern with eucalyptus and dried flowers.
The symbolism of the Advent wreath
Each element has its own meaning:
- The circle: Often stands for eternity and togetherness
- The greenery: Evergreen as a symbol of life in the darkest time of the year
- The four candles: The growing light — one more candle each week until Christmas
- The colors: Traditionally purple or red (the liturgical colors of Advent), today often also white, gold, or natural tones
In the Catholic tradition, the four candles each have their own names: hope, peace, joy, and love — although the exact assignment varies by region.
Advent wreath styles in Vienna
Classic
Fir branches (Nordmann fir or Nobilis), four red or purple candles, red berries, golden baubles, a satin ribbon. Smells like forest and Christmas. Very common in Vienna. Find out more on the bussinesscard page.
Modern minimalist
Eucalyptus instead of fir, white or sand-colored candles, dried flowers, natural pine cones. No glitter, no baubles — structure and texture take center stage. Seen more and more often in Vienna.
Long instead of round
In recent years, another style has become more common: the Advent wreath as a long floral arrangement on a wooden tray or metal tray. Four candles in a row, with moss, branches, and pine cones in between. It saves space and looks especially beautiful on narrow dining tables.
DIY wreath
Some florists in Vienna offer Advent wreath workshops in November where you can make your own wreath. The base, wire, fir greenery, and decorations are provided — and you go home with a finished wreath that feels truly personal. A lovely alternative to buying one ready-made. Explore the topic further in the article Florist Vienna - how to find the right one.
Tip: Never leave Advent wreaths with real candles burning unattended. Dried flowers and eucalyptus are especially flammable. An alternative: LED candles, which now look remarkably real and even flicker.
Keeping your Advent wreath fresh
With proper care, an Advent wreath made from fresh fir branches can often stay beautiful until Christmas. A few simple tips can help:
- Do not place it directly above a radiator — dry heat speeds up the drying process
- Lightly mist regularly — for example, spray with a little water from time to time
- Choose sturdy greenery — mixed greenery or varieties like Nobilis often shed their needles more slowly than very soft fir
- If possible, store it in a cool place — a cool night on the balcony or in the entryway can help preserve its freshness
Advent wreaths at MoBlumen Vienna
Classic, modern, or bespoke — hand-tied Advent wreaths, available for delivery in Vienna.
Frequently asked questions about the Advent wreath
Johann Hinrich Wichern in Hamburg is often named as the originator. He used a wooden wreath with several candles as a way to count down to Christmas; the simplified version with four candles developed later from this.
In many Catholic communities, there is a tradition of using three purple candles and one pink candle (for the third Sunday of Advent, “Gaudete”). In Austria, red candles are also very common in everyday practice. White, gold, or sand-colored candles are also a modern choice.
Often several weeks — depending on the greenery, room temperature, and location. Keep it away from excessive heat, lightly mist it now and then, and choose sturdier greenery. If you can store it in a cool place, it will usually stay fresh longer.
