For something so closely tied to Christmas — whose very image and flavor is practically synonymous with the season —  it may be surprising to realize that origins of candy canes are something of a sweet mystery.

Thanks to Kirk Vashaw, CEO of Spangler Candy Company, for appearing in this episode.

Be sure to check out the "Definitive Directory of Christmas Podcasts"

Share a Christmas memory on the podcast! Just record a voice memo into your phone and send it to [email protected]. Keep it reasonably short, clean and family friendly, and be sure to say your name and where you're from. 

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Music in this episode

• Shooting Star — Dexter Britain, via Free Music Archive
• Gentle Marimbas — Podington Bear, via Free Music Archive
• Early Morning Snow— Chuck Brown, via Feels Like Christmas
• Christmas Eve — Borrtex, via Free Music Archive
• Wish Background  — Kevin MacLeod via Incompetech

Connect with Me

• Links to all the things https://christmaspastpodcast.com/links
• Email: [email protected]

Books

Of Christmases Long, Long Ago: Surprising Traditions from Christmas Past (2025, Lyons Press and Recorded Books) It's Christmas as you've never seen it before, and it makes a great gift for all the Christmas lovers in your life.

Christmas Past: The Fascinating Stories Behind Our Favorite Holiday's Traditions (2022, Lyons Press and Recorded Books)