December 22, 2023, 3:46 pm | Read time: 2 minutes
During the Christmas season, there are many different customs and traditions. These include an Advent wreath, a Christmas tree–and a Christmas pickle. The latter might make some people pause. After all, a pickle doesn’t sound particularly festive. But behind the “Christmas Pickle” lies a truly festive tradition.
Opinions differ when it comes to Christmas decorations. Some prefer the classic look, with red and gold ornaments on the Christmas tree. Others like bright colors with unusual tree decorations. How about a pickle on the Christmas tree in this case? Although, if you think about it, the Christmas pickle could be interesting for fans of both classic and unique Christmas decor. Behind the so-called “Christmas Pickle” is an old tradition.
What Is a Pickle Doing on the Christmas Tree?
Imagine it’s Christmas somewhere in America. The tree is beautifully decorated with ornaments and sparkles with glitter and tinsel. Outside, it’s a wintry white, and inside, the fireplace flickers. The last gifts are wrapped and placed under the tree. The stockings are already hanging for the children on the mantel. Almost perfect!
But something is missing: the pickle ornament. So quickly take it out and hide it well in the Christmas tree. It’s easier than you think because the pickle is as green as the tree itself. And that’s the fun of it! It shouldn’t be too easy for the children. Whoever finds the pickle first the next morning gets a special Christmas gift from Santa, according to American tradition. Additionally, the pickle is a good luck charm for the coming year.
Is the Christmas Pickle Just a Legend?
Actually, it’s a beautiful Christmas tradition. Strangely enough, Americans assume it comes from Germany: Are they right?
Our research takes us deep into Thuringia, specifically to the Thuringian home of the Christmas bauble–Lauscha. There, these glass pickles are made alongside other Christmas ornaments. According to legend, the first glass ornaments were crafted by a glassblower from Lauscha as a substitute for real fruit in 1847 for Christmas decorations. This idea was exported to the U.S. by a certain Frank Winfield Woolworth and helped Thuringian Christmas decorations achieve international success. Thus, the little glass Christmas pickle also made its way to America. It was even featured in an American tree ornament catalog in 1909.