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In Germany gingerbread men (and other shapes like animals) were, and still are, hung on Christmas Trees as ornaments. In the UK during the Victorian period, bakers made gingerbread 'husbands and wives' to give your loved one on Valentines Day! From festively shaped biscuits to extravagantly decorated gingerbread houses, gingerbread has become a culinary staple of Christmas. But this wasn't always the case. Food historian Sam Bilton discusses its ginger-less medieval origins and significance in Queen Victoria’s household, and even unearths a Dickens family recipe. Waves of immigrants brought gingerbread to America (George Washington's mother is credited with one recipe), and the houses became particularly popular as Christmas decorations among the German population of Lancaster County, Pennsylvania-the "Pennsylvania Deutsch." By the 19th century, gingerbread houses became associated with Christmas traditions, especially in Germany. German immigrants then carried this charming custom to the New World, and it quickly became an integral part of North American holiday festivities. The concept of the Christmas tree comes from Northern European countries — places like Norway, where the evergreen was brought inside during the winter months as a symbol of rebirth. The pine tree stays green all year round, so it gave folks hope that spring and greenery would come again. In England, gingerbread was a common ingredient in Christmas pies and puddings, while in Germany, it was used to create intricate cookie-like decorations for the Christmas tree. The spice’s warming properties, combined with its symbolic connection to good health and prosperity, made it a natural fit for the festive season. When the holiday season arrives, the aroma of gingerbread fills homes and bakeries, evoking warm memories and festive cheer. Have you ever wondered how this spiced treat became synonymous with Christmas? Let’s look at its history and uncover its origins and special connection to the holiday season. What is the origin of gingerbread as a Christmas tradition? Gingerbread has its roots in medieval Europe, where spices like ginger and cinnamon were highly valued for their flavor and preservative properties. The tradition of baking gingerbread during Christmas is believed to have originated in 11th-century Germany, where it was known as While gingerbread can be baked year round now, it is still primarily seen as a symbol of the Christmas holiday. Today, many homes assemble gingerbread houses, bake cookies made out of gingerbread, and some even adorn their Christmas trees with gingerbread garland! By the Middle Ages, monks in the West were making gingerbread cookies with religious scenes carved into them—a snack and a lesson! It was about this time that gingerbread began to resemble the holiday treat eaten all around the world today—with a few changes to the original recipe. Queen Elizabeth I is credited with inventing the Picks and sprays are a great way to sneak in some extra red and give your tree that Valentine's Day touch. Tree Toppers for the Final Loving Touch. A traditional star or angel on top of the tree is nice for Christmas, but for a Valentine's Day twist, consider a starburst tree topper to symbolize the burst of love that comes with the romantic Love this tree! You have me so excited about these trees! I love them! I even brought a new Christmas tree this year. Last year I brought that pencil tree and leave it up all year round. Love the lights!!! Thank you for being such an inspiration!!!! Have a great Thanksgiving! Reply I like to add decor around my Christmas trees as well, so this sweet stuffed gingerbread girl, from Hobby Lobby, is standing alongside the tree on top of a wooden crate that is also holding that ornament tree (from a thrift store) and some jumbo bulb lights. 8′ King Flock Artificial Christmas Tree by King of Christmas. This Christmas tree features a stunning flocked design that mimics the look of snow-covered branches, creating a winter wonderland effect. With its ample height and realistic appearance, it serves as a beautiful centerpiece for holiday decorations. The tree is easy to assemble and Knitted Christmas Tree Skirt. This large-knit, cream-white tree skirt is the perfect base for a gingerbread-themed Christmas tree. With a 48-inch diameter, it will look full and generous under any size tree. The knit material adds so much texture and warmth to the room, too. Cut out two of each size of star, except for the smallest size—cut out three of those. Place the cut-out cookies on baking sheets covered with parchment, Try to keep similar sizes of stars on the same sheet, so they bake evenly, and space the cookie about 2 inches apart. This same tree has been a Valentine's Day tree for several years but it has had a totally different look each year. I removed the Christmas decorations from the tree but left the rag garland on it. A lot of the fabrics I used in making the rag garland were also used in making the fabric hearts that are hanging on the tree. Valentine’s Day is the perfect holiday to use the leftover Christmas candy to make Valentine’s Day crafts and snacks! Come along my journey through the leftover Christmas candy Valentine’s Day Hershey Kisses Tree. One of the benefits of the red, white, silver of Valentine’s Day candy is the colors mimic Christmas! Yeah! Valentine's tree, a Spring tree with bunnies-tulips-pastels, a Summer tree of either a beach theme with seashells or red-white-blue with sunflowers. SO MANY OPTIONS! Reply Smile: With white paint, add a curved line below the eyes for a cheerful smile. Cheeks: Add small red circles just below the eyes for rosy cheeks. Icing Details: Add squiggly white lines near the top and bottom of the vase to mimic icing.
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Photos from events, contest for the best costume, videos from master classes.
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