Symbols and Meanings of Christmas: Candy Canes

Each day between December 1-25, we will look at one of the traditional symbols of Christmas, what these symbols mean and how they tell the Christmas story of our Savior’s birth.

Candy Canes

Originally candy canes were white sugar sticks and they first appeared in 1837 at an exhibition in Massachusetts. The red stripes came along a few years later. It was in 1866 they were first called “candy canes” but it was not until 1874 that they became associated with Christmas. While originally they were just sugar flavored, today they come in all kinds of flavors, with peppermint probably being the most popular.

Legends about Candy Canes

One story comes from 1670 and tells about a German choirmaster who wanted to keep the children sitting quietly through the long Christmas nativity service, so he gave them something to eat. However, he wanted them to be reminded of Christmas, so he shaped them into a “J” shape, which is the first letter of “Jesus,” but if turned upside down, it looks like a shepherds crook, so it could also remind them of the shepherds that heard the angels sing and then went to see the baby Jesus in the manger.

Christians also find meaning in the candy cane. The white part represents the purity of Jesus and the red stripes are for the blood he shed when he died on the cross. The peppermint flavor can represent the hyssop plant that was used for purifying in the Bible. Some say these meanings were added to candy canes after they become popular.

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The elves have been busy! Check out these new Christmas designs

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Here are some of our other Christmas Christian tees designs.

Here are a few samples of our Christmas designs. You can see them all in the store. There are only 5 weeks ’til Christmas. All designs are printed when ordered so you’ll need to give time for printing and shipping. Order early to ensure they arrive in time for wearing this holiday season or giving as gifts.

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What’s Inside God, Love and Marshmallow Wars?

This book includes 365 daily activities and takes you on a guided journey through Biblical principles about Godly marriage that you can then apply to your marriage, as well as helping you talk through concepts that can help you develop a solid relationship. Inside you will find simple, quick activities that include:

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