The Legend of the Christmas Pickle
This a great annual holiday tradition that my kids have loved at all ages, even as teens.
Legend has it that the pickle symbolizes good luck, and in Old World Germany, it was the last ornament placed on the Christmas tree. The pickle was hung deep amongst the branches of the tree, not making it an easy quest. The first child to find it on Christmas morning was rewarded with an extra gift from St. Nicholas. The first adult to find the pickle traditionally gets good luck for the whole year!
With four kids, we altered this tradition a bit by giving more opportunities for "success". After decorating our tree, the pickle was hidden amongst the boughs and the first child to find it was granted with a little treat. That child then had already had their turn discovering the pickle, leaving the others to get the opportunity to find it as well. After everyone has found the pickle, the kids hide it for each other on the days leading up to Christmas but the treats have already been doled out. One year, our pickle was hidden so well, that it almost made it's way out to be recycled with the pickle still nestled amongst the boughs!
Here is the Christmas Pickle Poem:
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.
This is one of our favorite, easy, traditions that make for great fun leading up to Christmas!
