Parish Magazine God’s Acre Content – December 2026

Kings of Winter: Holly and Oak Folklore

A great battle occurs every year when the seasons change. It rages between two key figures that dictate the changing of weather and the length of days. One rules the Summer and the other Winter. One thing is certain though; the seasons must shift and one King will emerge victorious over the other.

For those who celebrate Christmas each year, we place evergreen trees in our homes and decorate with holly, ivy, mistletoe and other plants. But have you ever considered where this custom originates from or why we favour these plants so highly at Wintertime?

Well, ancient peoples of Europe, such as Druids and Pagans, believe that these plants that we hold synonymous with Christmas held special powers. At a time when many other plants have died off for the year, they remind us of the rebirth that happens every year with the Winter Solstice, where the light returns, days grow longer and warmer and life returns to the world. During this time, the legend of the Holly King and the Oak King spoke of the battle that occurs every year as the two royals fight it out for control of the seasons.

The Holly and the Oak Kings are depicted in Celtic myths in a variety of ways. Sometimes they are mortal men, sometimes brothers or even twins. You may see depictions of the Oak King as a Green Man type figure, much like some you may see in some church carvings. The Holly King on the other hand, is depicted as a jolly fellow dressed in red with sprigs of Holly in his hair, like the present-day version of Father Christmas. The Oak King represents the Summer, while the Holly King represents the Winter. It is said that during the Summer, the Oak King is at the height of his strength. However, as colder days draw in and leaves start to fall, the Holly King slowly regains his power, taking control, peaking at the Winter Solstice on the 21 December. On the solstice, the Oak King is reborn as new leaves begin to emerge, and so the cycle repeats.

So, next time you’re in a churchyard or burial ground and find an Oak or Holly tree, remember this tale and say thanks to the trees that keep the seasons turning. Until next time, wishing you all a very Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!

Kaitlyn Elverson

Engagement Officer, Nature in Sacred Places Project (NiSP)

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