The Symbolism Associated with Your Favorite Easter Colors

They were first established by Pope Innocent III in 1198.

naturally dyed easter eggs in a wooden basket
Photo: Janelle Jones

When the spring season rolls around and it's time to decorate, everyone seems naturally drawn to pretty pastels. After all, with Easter 2022 coming soon, it only seems fitting to decorate with soft pinks, fresh greens, and delicate lilacs. Those who celebrate the holiday may find these hues even more fitting in your seasonal décor once you learn the deeper meaning behind them. According to the "Encyclopedia Britannica," the color sequence that the Roman Catholic church follows today was first established in 1198 when Pope Innocent III wrote the treatise, "The Mystery of the Sacred Altar." In his outline, the Pope based color symbolism on interpretations from the Song of Solomon in the Old Testament, such as white emulating purity and red signifying martyrdom. Today, those associations ring true in the traditions of cultures and religious denominations around the world. For you, the hidden meaning behind each of these Easter colors may inspire your crafts and decorations.

White

According to Easter color symbolism, this is the shade of innocence, purity, and God's glory. When it comes to spring and the holiday's signature shades, white is incredibly versatile and provides a fresh backdrop for pretty pastels. For your Easter brunch, lay out a white doily tablecloth, bunny-folded napkins, or natural eggs inspired by pierced creamware.

Red

This color symbolizes the Lord's passion, sacrifice, and martyrdom. If this color resonates with you, dyeing natural brown (instead of white) eggs in red will create a gorgeous, deep shade of scarlet. These eggs can be arranged on a grapevine wreath, placed inside a basket, or arranged as a table centerpiece.

Purple

While this Easter color is typically associated with royalty, purple symbolizes penance, humility, and sorrow for Jesus' suffering in the context of the holiday. This is why you will frequently see this color associated with Lent, a period of sacrifice that also marks the upcoming resurrection of the Lord. If you want to decorate with purple for Easter, take this creative route with a purple eggshell holder for floral arrangements.

Pink

This light, sweet shade symbolizes bountiful joy and love. And honestly, how do you not feel joy when looking at perfectly fresh florals in this hue? Pink flower arrangements are a pretty, versatile decoration that makes its mark both indoors and out.

Green

Green is the color of growth, hope, and eternal life. And during Easter's spring season, rebirth is all around us—leaves sprout on trees and flowers burst into color with full force—so this hue seems like a given. If you'd like to incorporate green into your holiday décor, try paying homage to the beauty of nature by crafting pounded-grass place mats or grass candles.

Yellow or Gold

Like the shining rays of the sun, these Easter colors (yellow or gold) represent pure joy. You can never go wrong with a light and bright floral arrangement—or you can take a more glamorous route with these gold foiled Easter eggs or a spring wreath for your front door.

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