Love is in the air! Sign up now for November Holiday Kissing Ball Workshops, sponsored by Bedford Extension Master Gardeners and Bedford Public Libraries.
Those Victorians sure knew how to spice up the holidays! They reincarnated the Middle Ages’ “holy boughs”, evergreen branches swaged across doorways adorned with images of the Holy Family on them, into “Kissing Balls”. These round orbs, often created with apples or potatoes, were studded with sweet smelling substances such as evergreens, herbs and spices and decorated with ribbons or other small items. They were then hung from doorways or arches as a sign of good will for visitors.
The herbs on each “kissing ball” were not only chosen for their beauty, but also for their symbolic value. Lavender denoted loyalty and devotion; thyme for courage; rosemary for remembrance and fidelity; oregano for happiness and courage; and sage for good health and long life. Mistletoe, symbolizing good fortune and fertility, was a popular decorative choice and eventually replaced herbs on the kissing balls, inviting waltzing dancers or single women waiting for a potential suitor. The custom of puckering up under the mistletoe is based on an old Scandinavian legend. It is highly poisonous plant so be very careful if you choose to use it in arrangements. Fragrant flowers and greenery, symbolizing kindness and love have been added to update our modern day globes.
Join Bedford Extension Master Gardeners and Bedford Public Libraries for a fun HANDS-ON KISSING BALL WORKSHOP.
While this workshop is FREE, space is limited so you must pre-register at your preferred library location. Registration begins on Oct.1 and is limited to patrons aged 13 and older.
- Moneta: Saturday, Nov 3 @ 11:00am
- Montvale: Saturday, Nov 10 @ 10:30am
- Forest: Saturday, Nov 10 @ 11:00am
- Big Island: Tuesday, Nov 13 @ 2:00pm
- Bedford: Saturday, Nov 17 @ 11:00am
- Stewartsville: Saturday, Nov 17 @ 11:00am
Source: Sue Becker, Bedford Extension Master Gardener
Additional reading: https://hgic.clemson.edu/factsheet/holiday-decorating-with-fresh-greenery/
