Christmas and Candy Canes

Candy canes are iconic confections that can share the Christmas story with young and old alike. Really, is there a better method of stirring cocoa than with a candy cane?

Candy canes became popular in our family for a few reasons. One, we all really like peppermint, especially on cocoa. Two, the candy is so unique. Three, it’s associated with one of our family’s favorite Christmas books, The Legend of the Candy Cane by Lori Walburg (Zondervan, 1997). In the story, a stranger rides into a small town, refurbishes a storefront, and opens a special store. One brave young girl, Lucy, offers to assist the stranger unpack the wooden crates. Her wish (and the wish of all the town children) comes true. The new shop is a confectionary. Sonneman’s Candy Store becomes a place of community fellowship and joy. The legend of the candy cane is told, beginning with ” ‘J’ is for Jesus” to draw the town people together in faith. The story points to the reason we celebrate Christmas. James Bernardin illustrations are delightful and bring the legend to life.

When my boys were in elementary school, we decided to share the story with friends and neighbors. We wrote a poem based on the book. Then we attached candy canes to Christmas cookie plates, tied on bows, and used the poem as the gift tag to wish everyone a merry Christmas. The boys and I made our way around the neighborhood with our holiday treats and more importantly, the special message of God’s great love.

Ideas for Sharing Candy Canes at Christmastime

• Buy copies of The Legend of the Candy Cane by Lori Walburg for the children in your family.  Wrap the books in brown paper. Tie with raffia. Attach candy canes. Pathway Books is my go-to for great books for families!
• Make fudge. Package on Christmas plates with candy canes tied in the bow.
• Invite the neighborhood children in for story time after an afternoon of sledding. Afterward, invite friends to your home. Read the book together. Make cocoa for everyone. Use candy canes as stirring sticks. Print the recipe below!
• Prepare a homemade gift for family, friends, and neighbors. Use the recipe for hot cocoa and chocolate dipped candy canes. The lid label is included!
• Decorate your home for Christmas with candy canes.
• Read The Legend of the Candy Cane for inspiration, encouragement, and faith.

May the anticipation of Advent and the love of this season fill your heart with joy!

But the angel said to them, “Do not be afraid.
I bring you good news that will cause great joy for all the people.”
Luke 2:10

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