Why Did People Start Putting Popcorn Strings On Christmas Trees?
December 4, 2024
It’s the time of year when many people are putting up and decorating their Christmas trees. Everyone has their own taste in tree decorating style. Some people like white lights, some people like multi-colored lights. Some people like every ornament to be unique, some people prefer sets of ornaments that go together. Some people do theme trees celebrating their favorite hobbies. Of course, tree decorating trends have also evolved a lot over the years. However, one Christmas tree decoration that’s stood the test of time is popcorn garlands! But how did this tradition get started in the first place?
Today, Christmas tree ornaments and decorations are a small industry all on their own, with ornaments available celebrating just about every interest, hobby, or fandom. It wasn’t always that way, though. People have been putting up Christmas trees for a long time. The origins of the modern Christmas tree go back to Germany in the 16th century. But until relatively recently – the last century or so – they had to decorate them with what they had on hand or could make themselves.
Tree ornaments in 19th century America were often made of paper, metal foil, and foodstuffs like cranberries, nuts, cookies, and yes, popcorn. Compared to some other alternatives, popcorn has the advantage of lasting on the tree the whole holiday season without spoiling or falling apart. It was once common to dye the popcorn bright colors, but now leaving the popcorn in its natural white color is more popular – perhaps because it makes the popcorn string garlands resemble snow on the branches of the tree.
Today, even long after specially-made Christmas tree ornaments have become available, garlands of popcorn remain a popular decoration choice. They’re fun and easy to make, and they bring a touch of homey tradition to any tree amidst all of the shiny baubles and pop culture-inspired ornaments. While just about any kind of popcorn will do for hanging on the tree, we recommend picking up a tin of Topsy’s to snack on while you’re making the strings! You can pick from all of our delicious flavors, and get an attractive holiday-themed tin design that will fit right in with the rest of your decor.
Happy holidays from Topsy’s!
