Sunday, December 18, 2016

The Christmas Pickle Legend by Author Elizabeth Alsobrooks


I have read so many blog posts recently that dealt with holiday traditions, stories and photos, that I felt inspired to get into the spirit myself. After all, I finally did some holiday baking myself, and hubby is outside hanging lights. We may even put the tree up. Did I mention that we procrastinate? Never mind. He has promised to sing carols to me, so all is forgiven.

When chasing an interesting story’s origin, I ran across this wonderful Christmas traditions and cultural norms page: http://www.whychristmas.com/cultures/usa.shtml and of course I had to read the USA page. I found out a lot of things about cultural traditions in my own country that I found interesting, not the least of which was my husband's excited comment that finally he would be able to find some delicious and inexpensive Christmas Tamales, is actually a tradition here in the southwest. But most amusing and intriguing to me was the Christmas Pickle! Here's the story:


As with Hallmark, it seems the truth of this tradition may have originated in commerce, but it’s still fun to think of having one on my tree. I wish I’d known of this while my kids were young, but I may have to get one, just for fun! The “legend” is that it originated in Germany and it was a pickle ornament hidden on the tree, way back in the branches so it wasn’t easy to see, and whoever found it first got an extra present from St. Nicolas. More fun than finding Easter eggs!

Here’s the poem:

The Christmas Pickle
To start a tradition that will surely last,
Here's the story about the pickle of glass.
The night before Christmas, it's hung on the tree
While everyone's sleeping, it's done secretly.
And on Christmas morning, when you arise,
The first one to find it will get a surprise!
A family tradition for all to share,

You'll look for the pickle year after year.

And of course you must hear the Christmas Pickle Carol!

7 comments:

CJ Burright said...

I always wondered about the mysterious pickle on the tree, and now I know! Fun post!

Elizabeth Alsobrooks said...

Thank, CJ. I am seriously getting one this year!

Diane Burton said...

That is such a cute story. My grandkiddies love pickles (the real ones). This sounds like a great new tradition. Thanks for sharing, Elizabeth.

Elizabeth Alsobrooks said...


Thanks, Diane! I agree that this IS a great idea for grandkids! If I had some, I would certainly start with tradition with them, for sure!

Nancy Gideon said...

What a fun post! I received a pickle from a friend years ago and am reminded of the tradition. I may have to hide it this year for when the family gathers. Have a happy holiday, all!!

Unknown said...

I love Christmas traditions! And I've been wondering why I kept seeing pickle ornaments, lol, so thanks for answering that question.

Pamela S Thibodeaux said...

What a sweet, cute post!
I heard of the Christmas Pickle but really didn't know the tradition. Thanks for sharing the info.

Good luck and God's blessings
PamT