The Pickle in the Christmas Tree: A Quirky European Tradition
When it comes to Christmas traditions, there's no shortage of enchanting customs that add magic to the holiday season. While you may be familiar with hanging ornaments and decking the halls with boughs of holly, there's a stranger and lesser-known tradition beloved by European and American households—the hiding of a pickle in the Christmas tree. But how did such a playful practice come about? And how exactly does it work? Discover the delight that awaits those who find this hidden treasure.
The Origin of the Christmas Pickle: A Tale of German Heritage
The origins of the tradition of hiding a pickle or gherkin in the Christmas tree are shrouded in folklore - one popular legend suggests that a Bavarian shopkeeper, facing a scarcity of ornaments, placed a pickle in the tree as a clever marketing ploy. He promised a special gift to the child who found the hidden pickle on Christmas morning. Others claim it to be an American tradition, resulting the gift of a pickle to a starving prisoner at Camp Sumter One during the American Civil War. After returning to his family in Bavaria, the soldier, crediting the pickle with saving his life, began a tradition of hiding a pickle on their Christmas tree each year.
Regardless of the origins, the game is a fun addition to Christmas morning. On Christmas Eve, a trusted family member covertly places a small, green pickle or gherkin ornament somewhere within the Christmas tree's branches. The pickle is well-camouflaged amidst the array of other ornaments, lights, and tinsel and can be surprisingly hard to find. For smaller families, often one person hides, while the other rotates tree so that everyone can get in on the game.
Christmas Morning: The Thrill of the Hunt
On Christmas morning, it's time to go pickle hunting. The entire family gathers around the tree, inspecting each branch of a little glimmer of green. The to spot the hidden treasure wins a bonus small gift, as well as the ultimate honour: first rights to open their presents. It's a joyful, wholesome family activity that adds an extra layer of excitement to the holiday celebrations - for kids and big kids alike.
Edelglas's Glass Gherkins: A Delightful Addition to the Tradition
While the tradition originally featured real pickles, beautiful glass gherkins are a bit more practical! At Edelglas, we have a range of pickle ornaments in all shapes & sizes - from minis that are a real challenge to find, to large, sparkly options for families with smaller children. Mouth-blown and hand-painted by skilled artisans, these pickles reflecting the same craftsmanship found in our renowned glass ornaments and jewellery while adding a touch of fun to your holiday.
As you decorate your tree this holiday season, try adding an Edelglas pickle to continue or start this delightful tradition in your own family. It's a unique way to celebrate European heritage or simply infuse a bit of fun into your holiday festivities.