The Pickle in the Christmas Tree: A Quirky European Tradition

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 the Christmas pickle come about? And how does the Christmas pickle tradition work? Discover the delight that awaits those who find this hidden treasure.


The Origin of the Christmas Pickle: A Tale of German Heritage

The roots of the tradition of hiding a pickle or gherkin in the Christmas tree are shrouded in folklore. One popular legend suggests that a German shopkeeper placed a pickle in the tree as a clever marketing ploy, promising a special gift to the child who found the hidden pickle on Christmas morning. Others claim it to be an American tradition, the result of a gift of a pickle to a starving prisoner during the American Civil War. After returning to his family, the soldier, crediting the pickle with saving his life, began a tradition of hiding a pickle on their Christmas tree each year.


How to Hide the Pickle: A Sneaky Holiday Tradition

Regardless of the origins, the game is a fun addition to Christmas morning. On Christmas Eve, a small pickle or gherkin ornament is discreetly placed somewhere within the Christmas tree's branches. The little green shape, well-camouflaged amidst the array of other ornaments, lights, and tinsel, can be surprisingly hard to find. For smaller families, one person hides the pickle while another spins the tree away so that no one sees where it lands, keeping the surprise for everyone.

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 for a little glimmer of green. The first 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 fun, 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 and 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 reflect 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.

Updated October 2026

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