On Pickles and Peanuts


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Have you ever heard of the pickle ornament? According to German tradition, the pickle brings good luck. On Christmas morning the first child to find the pickle received an extra little gift left by St. Nicholas. This was supposed to encourage children to appreciate all the ornaments on the tree instead of rushing to open their gifts.

Or what about the peanut ornament? Another tradition says that the peanut is a symbol of mystery and anticipation of the Christmas season. Just as when you open the shell, you find the peanut inside, the Christmas season unfolds with many delightful surprises. In past times, families would make handmade decorations with peanuts and other gilded nuts to adorn the Christmas tree.

These traditions sound quaint to us now, but Christmas traditions are very important in many homes. Some families used to string popcorn or make ornaments out of colored paper or tin foil. Others leave seeds and tidbits for birds and other animals outside. Some read the story of the first Christmas before opening their presents. Many sing Christmas carols around a nativity scene. Those with young children set out cookies and milk for Santa Claus on Christmas eve or recite "The Night before Christmas."


Christmas traditions tend to bring families together to celebrate the birth of Christ. They create wonderful memories to look back on and cherish. Many cultures have customs that have been carried on for generations such as sending Christmas cards, preparing special foods, and going to midnight Mass. Whatever your nationality, celebrate the feast with your own traditions or adopt a few from other cultures. 





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