The Candy Cane-Holiday History
Ah, candy canes! Those cute striped beauties patrol our Christmas trees and stockings like sugary scourges. But how did this peppermint stick end up as the pinnacle of the December holidays? So sit back, chill out, and be ready for a holiday season of history, accidents, and a bit of peppermint! (You probably know by now that I love the history of holiday symbols)
The Origins: A Candy with a Plan.
Legend tells us that the candy cane first appeared in 1670 when a German choirmaster decided that his church children were in need of a bit of sweetness to keep them quiet for long Christmas concerts. So, he made these white straight sticks to mimic the shepherd’s crook — since nothing screams "Holy Night" like a candy stick.
But when the pages of holiday rituals were filled with these treacle-strewn shepherd smugglers, they were soon recognized for their flavor (and not just their look). After each peppermint season that passed, the candy cane was no longer a church gift but a domestic object, cherished by children and parents alike – mainly because it quietened kids, as was intended. lol
Peppermint: The Spice of Life.
But why peppermint, you ask? Peppermint is not only refreshing, it smells beautiful, but it’s associated with winter for a very long time. Suppose you’re thinking, what better taste than peppermint against the winter cold? It’s the way nature says, "Get comfy, you can make up your sugar-induced fantasies!" Peppermint used to be thought to be medicinal, so parents could safely inform their child that if they let him eat so many candy canes, maybe it was "healthy"! (sore throats)
What if your child is before the tree with a candy cane, and they are like "Look Mom! I’m staying healthy!” Yeah right! Everybody knows the 3-for-1 sale in the store; the stuff is better eaten whole.
December’s Sweet Tradition
Candy canes are no longer a snack – they are part of our holidays, our cakes, and even our artwork. Who hasn’t made a candy cane reindeer or tried their hand at a candy cane wreath? (**Bonus points if you include the peppermint bomb, which will most certainly happen in your kitchen. At least it smells good!)
These striped treats are enjoyed by parents and kids everywhere. But remember, parents, be cautious! Well, there is nothing more "Tis the Season" than a squirt of peppermint and a sugar-crazed kid doing the Macarena by the Christmas tree! (Parents can add it to their Holiday cocktail or spiked hot cocoa)
So next time you see those Christmas-time candies, just give them a little love. They’re rooted low, their taste is new, and their history mellowly sings—just like the stick itself. Happy Holidays and minty, minty days!
