It all comes back to holly and ivy.

But few people realize why these complementary hues represent the popular holiday or where its origins begin.

This traditional color scheme has a history rooted in symbolism, religion, and even Coca-Cola.

Red Christmas Ornament on Tree

Credit: Roberto Machado Noa / Contributor / Getty Images

Here’s what it’s crucial that you know about the classic red and green Christmas color palette.

This tradition transformed into a similar version of today’s festive red and green Christmas decor.

Symbols in Christianity

Throughout the Bible, red and green symbolize the life of Jesus.

People still consider Sundblom’s depiction of St. Nick as “the real one.”

Here are a few other common holiday colors and their meanings.

Additionally, white is the color of freshly fallen snow seen in winter months.

Gold and Silver

Gold and silver are also typical hues found in Christmas decor.

They represent the gifts from the wise men to Jesus, which included gold.

Additionally, blue also is associated with winter ice and snow.