The Story Behind Candy Canes

I wake up to find that the Christmas spirit is in the air. Bells are ringing, many Christmas trees and decorations are put up. I hear christmas carols. Everyone is shopping, I see cars with Christmas trees on their roofs. One popular Christmas tree ornament is candy canes. ...But how did candy canes come to be? How did candy canes become part of the Christmas tradition? These questions led me to some research. It all began in the 17th century when the European-Christians started the Christmas tree tradition. They used food including candy and cookies as their ornaments. One type of candy on the trees were sugar stick candy. Sugar stick candy was these white sticks of sugar candy. Then, in 1670, a new tradition started during Christmastime. A choirmaster from a church started giving out sugar stick candy that were bent like the shape of our candy canes. The choirmaster bent them out that shape to represent the shape of a shepherd's staff. Soon, the candy canes made its way to America. It was still white but, the candy canes now had decorations including sugar roses. Only after the 1800s were the famous red and white stripes on the candy canes. Soon, the traditional peppermint flavor was added. Many people think that the candy canes are shaped like a "J" as in Jesus's name. Now, the candy cane is a symbol for Christmas.
Recently, candy canes are in many different flavors, colors, and sizes. There are cherry, wintergreen, peppermint and many more flavors. Many candy camea are now branded with a candy company, including "jelly belly" candy canes, "smarties" candy canes, and even "sour patch" candy canes. Personally, I dislike peppermint but I love cherry candy canes. Just looking at the bright colors of the candy canes make me feel so happy and in the holiday mood! Candy canes are a real treat and a remainder for Christmas!