Traditionally, the color red has been used during liturgical celebrations to symbolize joy and the fire of the Holy Spirit. It is worn by priests and other ministers and is used in church decorations. Similarly, red flowers such as roses and geraniums are often used to decorate the altar and other places in the church. During the Middle Ages, Holy Ghost holes could be found in many churches. These are small circular openings in the roof which, on Pentecost, were decorated with flowers. During Mass on Pentecost, a dove would be lowered through the hole into the church to symbolize the Holy Spirit descending.
Many countries have traditions associated with Pentecost. In German-speaking lands in Central Europe, green branches, traditionally birch branches, are used to decorate churches. In Italy, rose petals are scattered from the ceiling as a symbol of the fiery tongues which descended upon the Apostles. In France, it is customary to blow trumpets to recall the sound of the mighty wind in the Upper Room. In England, Pentecost is referred to as “Whitsunday.” This name comes from the word “wit” and refers to the wit and wisdom the Apostles received from the Holy Spirit. In northwest England, church parades called Whit Walks are held. These parades contain brass bands and choirs and girls who attend wear white. Other English traditions on Whitsunday include Whit Fairs (also called Whitsun Ales), morris dancing and cheese rolling.