Head down to the heated Treasures from the Sand exhibit and make your very own swag to take home!
Houses were decorated during the 18th century to make them more festive. Most decorations were made out of natural materials. Garlands were the most popular and were made of evergreens like ivy, holly, and mistletoe to symbolize life. People also used flowers and herbs of all types – lavender, rose, rosemary. It was also common to see sprigs, or swags of greenery used in windows or above fireplaces. Balls of mistletoe might be hung for couples to kiss under. It was not common to see trees inside the home as decoration.
Some people thought that it was bad luck to decorate before Christmas Eve. Once Twelfth Night (January 6) was over, most decorations were taken down. Some said that it was to prevent bad luck to leave them up too long.