For many of us growing up, finding a piece of fruit at the bottom of our Christmas stocking was not exactly what we had hoped for. But have you ever stopped to wonder where this tradition comes from? The truth is, the story of the fruit in your stocking is just one of many festive customs with origins that can be traced back centuries. Through exploring these traditions, we can uncover the fascinating history of our festive celebrations.
It may come as a surprise to learn that the tradition of giving fruit at Christmas time dates back to medieval times. In the days before refrigeration, getting fresh fruit in the depths of winter was a real treat. In fact, it was so special that it was often given as a gift at Christmas time. Oranges and other citrus fruits were particularly prized, as they were thought to symbolize gold and represent prosperity for the new year.
During the 19th century, oranges and other fruits began to be imported to the UK in greater quantities as trading routes improved. This meant that they became more affordable and more widely available. As a result, the tradition of giving fruit at Christmas became even more widespread. There was also a belief that this tradition had originated from St. Nicholas, a 4th-century Christian saint known for his generosity and kindness to children. According to legend, St. Nicholas would toss gold coins through the window of a poor family so that they could afford to purchase fruit.
However, the tradition of placing fruits in stockings is most closely associated with the European Sinterklaas celebration. This is similar to the Santa Claus tradition that we have today. In Holland, Sinterklaas would traditionally fill children’s shoes with sweets and small treats on December 5th. The next day, the children would awaken to find that Sinterklaas had replaced their stockings with oranges, nuts, and other goodies.
In the UK, it became customary to hang stockings by the fireplace on Christmas Eve. Children would then awaken on Christmas morning to find them filled with small gifts and treats. For many, finding a piece of fruit among their gifts was a particular highlight. Over time, the tradition has evolved, and today it is not unusual to find all sorts of small gifts and treats in your stocking.
The story of the fruit in your Christmas stocking is just one example of the rich and varied customs and traditions associated with the festive season. It is amazing to think that something as simple as a piece of fresh fruit can have such cultural significance. So next time you tuck into a satsuma on Christmas morning, take a moment to appreciate the history and meaning behind this festive tradition. And who knows, maybe one day it will become a tradition that you pass down to your own children and grandchildren.
Further Reading: Unwrapping the Story of the Christmas Card, The Fascinating Story of the Holly and the Ivy