Written by Allison Hudgins ~ Staff Writer
One of the weirdest Christmas traditions I have is hanging a pickle ornament on the Christmas tree.
This tradition has its roots in Germany, where my Grandma’s ancestors are from.
If you look up the origin of the Christmas pickle there’s no true answer, however one of the theories of the Christmas pickle is that the pickle ended up saving a prisoner (German immigrant) and gave him the power to keep fighting through the Civil War.
In my grandparents house whoever finds the pickle gets an extra present.
Once my brother and I got older, we hid the pickles for fun. This time I hid mine under the base of the tree.
I am eagerly anticipating the next upcoming break, during which I plan to visit Florida for New Year’s.
My mom’s side of the family resides there, and I typically get to see them once or twice a year.
I will be spending just a week down in Florida, and I’m excited to celebrate my 21st birthday a bit early with my family.
Seeing the entire family together during the holidays is a rare occurrence because my mom has three brothers, each with their own large family.
Last Christmas was an exception when I had the chance to be with my mom’s entire extended family.
One of the traditions I do with my family is play “White Elephant.”
The game involves people picking wrapped gifts, if they don’t like the gift they can steal another person’s gift.
If I’m not in Florida for Christmas, I celebrate Christmas with my dad and grandparents.
My brother and I attend a late night service with our Dad which always ends near midnight.
By the time we get home our grandparents are still up and we open presents on Christmas Eve, because It is more meaningful for us to open our gifts after church.
A tradition we uphold is lighting candles on the Advent wreath each Sunday.
The Advent wreath symbolizes God’s endless love for us and the leaves represent hope and eternal life
Learn more about the Christmas Pickle tradition and the significance of Advent wreaths.
