What is Look for an Evergreen Day?

Look for an Evergreen Day is observed on December 19, and invites people to pause amid all the Christmas shopping and noise of the season. On this quiet day, you intentionally seek out an evergreen tree that remains green in deep winter, much like a small living Christmas tree in the landscape. In many societies, the day has become a vital part of December because it honours the seemingly eternal nature of evergreens and the calm, steady life they carry year-round.

Why do evergreen trees matter during winter?

Evergreen trees matter because they keep landscapes alive through harsh seasons when most branches stand bare. A shade-tolerant evergreen adds structure and texture year-round to forests and gardens, supporting wildlife habitation through all four seasons. These apparent eternal nature qualities are why people see them as regal giants and noble trees, standing in white contrast against snow and reminding us that life quietly endures beneath the frost.

How does this day relate to Christmas traditions?

Look for an Evergreen Day naturally connects with the wider Christmas tree tradition. Historically, evergreens gained popularity in Britain when Queen Victoria and Prince Albert helped popularize indoor trees decorated with fairy lights and the sound of jingle bells. Today, families often choose Douglas Fir or red cedar, appreciating their tiny pointy needles or softer, short stripped needles, while remembering that evergreens also hold older meanings in religious practices about life, continuity, and renewal.

What are simple ways to observe the day?

You might visit a farm to choose a freshly cut tree, or simply admire a beloved artificial tree at home while still reflecting on living evergreens. When walking in nature, avoid leaving fishing lines or litter, and notice how some species once used for building canoes now anchor forests. Learn about evergreen plants and how this means plants that retain foliage in various locations, and such a situation lets you explore more personalized preferences and personalized preferences for decorating as trees reveal their full glory in the only place they grow.

Is Look for an Evergreen Day connected to environmental awareness?

Yes. The day highlights how evergreen plants support healthy cities and wild landscapes. Urban planners use street tree quality inventories, street median flood mitigation projects, and wider green infrastructure construction to manage stormwater runoff and improve pollutant filtration. Agencies such as the NYC department responsible for parks rely on tree surveys, topographical surveys, and a detailed inventory of literally thousands of trees. These efforts reinforce environmental protection and show how this means plants are central to resilient communities.

Is it safe to brew teas or forage from evergreens on this day?

Foraging demands real care. While some people use certain needles from generally spruces or pines to make aromatic drinks, you must never experiment casually with hemlock tea, because the philosopher Socrates drank poison hemlock with fatal results. Identification can be completely dependent on subtle botanical details. Research trusted guides, respect local rules, and when in doubt, leave plants untouched. Safety, not taste, is the essential part of any foraging you associate with Look for an Evergreen Day.

How did Look for an Evergreen Day begin and how is it maintained today?

Look for an Evergreen Day was originally established to draw attention to the quiet strength of winter trees and to complement, not commercialize, seasonal festivities. Unlike a formal holiday with a strict on-call agreement between agencies, it spreads through educators, nature groups, and families who let the message of Evergreens Day save their sense of calm each December. Its spirit depends on people choosing reflection over rush and honouring the steady life of trees in winter.

Meaning and Traditions Behind 'Look for an Evergreen Day'

December 19 marks a unique occasion, an occasion set right between the pre-Christmas bustle and the anticipation of the holiday itself. This is the 'Look for an Evergreen Day'. While not as widely recognized as other December holidays, it remains a day that holds special significance amid the wintry festivities.

Look for an Evergreen Day that offers a moment of reflection. It prompts people to slow down and connect with the natural world in all its verdant splendor. The day is all about encouraging people to appreciate nature, particularly the evergreen trees you can see throughout the winter months.

What is the Origin and Symbolism of Evergreen Day?

The precise origins of Look for an Evergreen Day are somewhat unclear, but it is believed to have been established by the National Arborist Association (now known as the Tree Care Industry Association). The day was created to celebrate the beauty of evergreen trees beyond their role as Christmas decorations. Evergreens, such as spruces, pines, and firs, are known to maintain their verdant green foliage throughout the winter months.

*Evergreen trees remain thriving through the winter months.*
*Photo by Gustavo Fring*

Historically, the use of evergreens in winter festivities predates Christianity. Evidence suggests their use in pagan winter solstice celebrations. These festivities often involved decorating homes and sacred spaces with evergreen branches to ward off evil spirits and invite good fortune in the coming year. In many ancient societies, evergreens also represented immortality, resilience, and the everlasting power of life even in the face of winter's harshness. The vibrant green foliage, a stark contrast to the dormant wintry landscape, symbolized hope and the promise of spring's return.

Perhaps the best-known origin of the tradition of decorating evergreen trees for Christmas festivities dates back to 1510 in Riga, Latvia, where locals adorned trees with ornaments during winter celebrations. By the 18th century, this practice spread throughout Europe, leading to the modern Christmas tree tradition. Their harmonious connection to Christmas festivities is, however, undeniable.

*Déjà Blue® Blue Spruce, picture by @Iseli Nursery*

As Christianity spread, evergreens became integral to Christmas traditions, symbolizing everlasting life and faith. Boughs of evergreens have become integral to Christmas celebrations for many years, adorning homes and churches as symbols of faith and the eternal life offered through Christ’s birth.

The Importance of Evergreens and the Look for an Evergreen Day

Evergreen trees, such as pines, spruces, and firs, are more than just festive decorations. They are essential components of the ecosystems. These trees provide habitats for countless species, contribute to carbon sequestration efforts, and help prevent soil erosion. Their ability to maintain foliage year-round makes them even more crucial for biodiversity.

*A couple with a spruce tree.*
*Photo by Gustavo Fring*

In addition to their ecological significance, evergreens hold cultural importance across different societies. For Native Americans in the Pacific Northwest, the red cedar tree was indispensable for making clothing, ropes, and even canoes. A deep-rooted connection to nature, therefore, emphasizes the need to recognize and celebrate these majestic trees.

It is for such reasons that the Look for an Evergreen Day urges people to keep in mind these resilient green trees during the festivities. The day highlights the remarkable ability of evergreen trees to thrive even in the face of winter adversity. Their continued vivacity during the winter months is a testament to their perseverance, resilience, and ability to overcome challenges.

Serbian spruce a favorite christmas ornament and one of the preferred holiday trees — *Photo by @everylastdetailkc*

Likewise, the act of seeking out an evergreen during this day encourages individuals to slow down, observe their surroundings, and appreciate the beauty of the natural world. The current fast-paced lives mean that taking time to connect with nature is crucial for people’s mental and emotional well-being. Finding an evergreen, whether in a forest, park, or even a potted plant, offers a moment of quiet contemplation and connection.

Look for an Evergreen Day, similarly, fits seamlessly into the festive season, adding another level of meaning to the Christmas celebrations. It provides an opportunity to connect with the deeper symbolism of evergreens in the festive season and their role in representing hope, optimism, and the spirit of life. This adds a reflective dimension to the often frenzied pace of the holiday season.

*Choosing an Evergreen for Christmass, picture by @Any Lane Pexels*

What is more, by focusing on evergreens, the day implicitly promotes environmental awareness and the importance of preserving the natural world. Evergreen forests play a vital role in maintaining ecological balance, and celebrating these trees helps raise awareness about their significance. On the day, the simple deed of seeking out an evergreen can also encourage one to think about the importance of protecting these valuable ecosystems.

The Relevance of Look for an Evergreen Day Today

In today’s fast-paced world, the value of pausing and reconnecting with nature has become more important than ever. Evergreens offer a reminder of continuity at a time when many people feel overwhelmed by digital noise and the pressures of the festive season. Their steady presence also reflects a growing awareness of environmental care, as evergreen forests support biodiversity and improve air quality. Taking a moment to recognise these trees on December 19 brings together traditional mindfulness and a deeper appreciation of the natural world.

How to Observe Look for an Evergreen Day

Observing Look for an Evergreen Day is simple and can be done in many ways, whichever way one fancies. Perhaps the most straightforward way to observe the day is to embark on a search for an evergreen tree. Going for an evergreen hunt can be done as a family outing, a solo adventure, or a community event. One could, for instance, explore local parks, forests, or even their backyard, and appreciate the texture of the needles, the scent of the branches, and the general beauty of the tree.

*A family outdoors inspecting evegreens.*
*Photo by Chris Briggs*

Decorating with evergreens is also a great way to observe the day. One could, for example, bring the spirit of the day indoors by decorating their home with evergreen boughs, wreaths, or other festive arrangements. This is a beautiful way to incorporate the symbolism of evergreens into Christmas celebrations. The day also presents an opportunity to learn more about the different types of evergreen trees, their ecological significance, and their cultural importance. This can be a fun and educational activity for all ages.

Still, in the same way, one can use the day as a time for reflection. They could consider the challenges they have faced in the past year and how they overcame them. The resilience of the evergreen trees can be a great form of inspiration for one’s inner strength and perseverance. They could, likewise, share the spirit of Look for an Evergreen Day with friends and family. In this case, they could talk about the symbolism of evergreens, go on an evergreen hunt together, or simply share the joy of appreciating nature's beauty.

Evergreen tree — *Photo by @romanhannover*

Look for an evergreen day presents an opportunity to engage in creative activities such as making evergreen wreaths, ornaments, or other crafts, or writing a blog, poem, or song to express appreciation for evergreens. Through these activities, one could express their appreciation of the beauty and resilience of evergreen trees or find ways to incorporate their symbolism into a festive narrative. These are all fun ways to celebrate the day and get creative with natural materials.

The Festive Spirit of Look for an Evergreen Day

The Look for an Evergreen Day seamlessly blends into the festive atmosphere around Christmas. As families prepare for holiday celebrations, taking time to appreciate the natural beauty around them adds depth to the season's joy. The day urges one to remember that while decorations may adorn their homes, the true essence of the holidays lies in connection both with loved ones and with nature.

beautiful contrasting spectacle of red with greens — *Photo by @springhill_nursery*

Because in many cultures, evergreens symbolize eternal life, a theme that resonates deeply during the holiday season when people celebrate renewal and hope. Recognizing Look for an Evergreen Day in this context cultivates a richer understanding of diverse floral traditions while nurturing respect for the environment. Moreover, and perhaps most importantly, this observance encourages people to slow down, pause, and reflect amid the hustle and bustle of holiday preparations.

That said, the act of "looking for an evergreen" on December 19, could be interpreted as a symbolic search for hope, resilience, and the everlasting spirit of nature during a time of year when much of the natural world appears dormant; a mindful act encouraging people to connect with the natural world and appreciate its subtle beauty even amid the chill of winter.

*A man holding an Evergreen Christmas Tree, picture by @Klondyke Garden Centre*

This connection to nature is particularly important in the modern world, where many people are increasingly disconnected from their natural surroundings. So, step out there and look for an evergreen. It will enhance your Christmas season festivities experience.

Header image by @Greta Hoffman.

The Meaning and Traditions Behind 'Look for an Evergreen Day'