Hiding a pickle ornament on the Christmas tree is a popular tradition in the American Midwest. The origins of the Christmas pickle are murky: Some say it's a German practice (yet few Germans know of it), while others say it stems from a legend in which St. Nick saved two boys from being pickled alive. Regardless, it's a fun game to play on Christmas morning. Whoever finds the pickle gets an extra gift or first crack at opening presents. As featured in Gastro Obscura.
