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It is impossible to find a definitive date for when Christmas nutcrackers became so ingrained in our traditional holiday décor. They did however, become very popular during the 17th and 18th century as a home warming gift, or something that you received as a party favor upon arrival as a dinner guest. It is quite possible that since Christmas is one of the only holidays in present times that many families come together, that this is how the innovative kitchen tool found its way into the celebration of the Season along with evergreen trees and Christmas lights.
This was a much needed tool in the past. They were essential social and kitchen aids in opening the shells of nuts. Not unlike today, nuts were an important part of the human diet, giving protein and healthy fats. These tools just are not necessarily needed in today's culture. Simply speaking, every grocery store sells a variety of nuts that have been already shelled and conveniently packaged.
It is truly hard to say what the attraction for this unique and historically vital tool is, but upon its inception, it was used solely for utilitarian needs. Then they began fashioning them into kings, nobles and soldiers, and Christmas nutcrackers became very popular. We can only imagine that these fun centerpieces remain high in popularity because of their various different forms, and their bright colors. Many people will tell you that the tool is unique because of the huge smile it seems to bear with its gigantic teeth used for opening the shells of nuts. Others will tell you that they are just so eye-catching and completely unlike the normal, frilly decorations we typically see, that this is why they are found during the season of giving and sharing. They are also found life-sized as outdoor Christmas decorations.
Christmas nutcrackers also took on shapes of other holiday icons, such as reindeer, Santa Claus, various elves, snowmen, and carolers. It is entirely likely that the beloved and world famous ballet that features the bearded man in a soldier's uniform may also have helped Christmas nutcrackers gain in popularity. Especially when you consider that it is always performed during this festive holiday season. Perhaps this too lent itself to making sure that this familiar icon will always be part of the holiday spirit in many of our homes worldwide. They have played an integral part in big displays at major department stores. Many businesses, as well as department stores will make them the focal point of their Christmas decorations, the centerpiece, if you will. For generations, children have been familiarized with Christmas nutcrackers during the holidays by using them, playing with them, having their pictures taken next to life sized ones. This would explain why these children have carried over the familiar tradition into adulthood, passing their fondest memories down to their own children and grandchildren.
While it isn’t clear how the X-mas nutcrackers became a tradition, or why it is such a popular item during the holidays, but one thing is absolutely certain, most people believe that no holiday display is complete until you bring out the old fashioned tool to complete the nostalgic look.
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