Did you know the true origin story of the beloved holiday treat: the candy cane? The iconic red and white striped candy has been delighting generations of people, young and old, for years, but most of us don’t know the true story behind its origins. The Legend of the Candy Cane has been around for hundreds of years, and it’s said to be a representation of the true meaning of Christmas.
In the 18th century, a humble yet kind-hearted pastor named Gregory (or Gregor, depending on the interpretation of the story) invented the candy cane in Germany. He wished to use the candy to simplify the story of Jesus’ birth to his congregation, which consisted of both young and old. He decided to create a sweet treat that shaped like a ‘J’ for Jesus - with the bottom part of the candy representing the staff of the Shepherd, and the white outer line signifying the innocence and purity of Jesus.
He added white stripes to represent the swaddling clothes that Jesus was wrapped in at the time of his birth. Additionally, he used peppermint flavourings to represent the hyssop herb, which was used by the Jews as an offering for sin, thereby implying that Jesus offered forgiveness to sinful people.
The candy cane was further decorated to include three red stripes to represent the Holy Trinity: the Father, Son and Holy Spirit. In addition to this, the red stripes were also intended to signify the shed blood of Jesus; a reminder of Jesus’ ultimate sacrifice.
The candy cane we know and love today closely resembles the candy cane Gregory invented centuries ago. The Legend of the Candy Cane has become a long-standing holiday tradition for many, and it continues to spread joy, hope, and the true message of Christmas to the world.
Legend has it that each sweet and unique detail of the traditional candy cane was meant to tell the story of Jesus. Every person who eats a candy cane during the holiday season will be reminded of the true spirit of Christmas, and this sweet reminder is the perfect way to spread cheer and understanding.
Families everywhere enjoy incorporating the Legend of the Candy Cane into their holiday celebrations. Young children look forward to telling this cheerful story to their friends, and every parent loves to witness the pure wonder and happiness in their little one’s eyes when they realize the powerful meaning behind this small and sweet holiday treat.
