Christmas pickle
Christmas pickle is a Christmas tradition that involves hiding a pickle-shaped ornament on a Christmas tree, with the finder receiving either a reward or good fortune for the following year. Originating from the United States, the tradition claims to have German roots, although this is widely disputed and considered a myth by many historians and cultural experts.
Origin[edit | edit source]
The exact origin of the Christmas pickle tradition is unclear, with several theories attempting to explain how it came to be. One popular story suggests that it originated in Germany, known as "Weihnachtsgurke," but this has been debunked by many as there is little evidence to support the claim that it is a traditional German practice. Another tale involves a Civil War soldier of German descent who, while imprisoned, begged for a pickle to stave off starvation. After being granted this wish, he attributed his survival and eventual prosperity to that pickle, leading to the tradition of the Christmas pickle.
Tradition[edit | edit source]
In practice, the Christmas pickle ornament is hidden within the branches of the Christmas tree, with the search for it becoming a game on Christmas morning. The first person to find the pickle is said to be blessed with good luck for the coming year and, in some versions of the tradition, receives a special gift or the privilege of opening the first present. The ornament itself is usually made of blown glass and is shaped like a green pickle.
Cultural Significance[edit | edit source]
Despite its questionable origins, the Christmas pickle has become a beloved part of Christmas celebrations for many families, particularly in the United States. It adds an element of fun and mystery to Christmas morning festivities and is embraced as part of the unique tapestry of holiday traditions. The tradition emphasizes family togetherness, as it encourages participation in a shared activity.
Controversy and Misconceptions[edit | edit source]
The notion that the Christmas pickle is a German tradition has been a point of contention. Many Germans are unfamiliar with the practice, and it is largely considered an American invention. The spread of this myth highlights how cultural practices can be misattribated and evolve over time, gaining new meanings and significance in different contexts.
In Popular Culture[edit | edit source]
The Christmas pickle has been referenced in various forms of media and has inspired a range of merchandise, from ornaments to books and even apparel. Its quirky nature has made it a subject of interest and amusement, further cementing its place in the pantheon of Christmas traditions.
See Also[edit | edit source]
Search WikiMD
Ad.Tired of being Overweight? Try W8MD's physician weight loss program.
Semaglutide (Ozempic / Wegovy and Tirzepatide (Mounjaro / Zepbound) available.
Advertise on WikiMD
WikiMD's Wellness Encyclopedia |
Let Food Be Thy Medicine Medicine Thy Food - Hippocrates |
Translate this page: - East Asian
中文,
日本,
한국어,
South Asian
हिन्दी,
தமிழ்,
తెలుగు,
Urdu,
ಕನ್ನಡ,
Southeast Asian
Indonesian,
Vietnamese,
Thai,
မြန်မာဘာသာ,
বাংলা
European
español,
Deutsch,
français,
Greek,
português do Brasil,
polski,
română,
русский,
Nederlands,
norsk,
svenska,
suomi,
Italian
Middle Eastern & African
عربى,
Turkish,
Persian,
Hebrew,
Afrikaans,
isiZulu,
Kiswahili,
Other
Bulgarian,
Hungarian,
Czech,
Swedish,
മലയാളം,
मराठी,
ਪੰਜਾਬੀ,
ગુજરાતી,
Portuguese,
Ukrainian
Medical Disclaimer: WikiMD is not a substitute for professional medical advice. The information on WikiMD is provided as an information resource only, may be incorrect, outdated or misleading, and is not to be used or relied on for any diagnostic or treatment purposes. Please consult your health care provider before making any healthcare decisions or for guidance about a specific medical condition. WikiMD expressly disclaims responsibility, and shall have no liability, for any damages, loss, injury, or liability whatsoever suffered as a result of your reliance on the information contained in this site. By visiting this site you agree to the foregoing terms and conditions, which may from time to time be changed or supplemented by WikiMD. If you do not agree to the foregoing terms and conditions, you should not enter or use this site. See full disclaimer.
Credits:Most images are courtesy of Wikimedia commons, and templates Wikipedia, licensed under CC BY SA or similar.
Contributors: Prab R. Tumpati, MD