In the United Kingdom, when the table is set for Christmas dinner, each place has a small object known as a cracker amongst the cutlery. This is a paper tube, which diners pull from each end. With a small bang, it tears open, presenting gifts that are vital to the Christmas tradition: small gifts, terrible jokes, and a paper hat. Below, we dive into the history and importance of Christmas crackers.
What is Inside a Cracker?
Over the years, crackers have contained everything from small tools to magic tricks and even plastic toys. In the modern age of environmentalism, consumers and manufacturers often stay away from some of these and buy ones with sweets and confectionaries to minimize waste.
Another idea that people in the United Kingdom use is scratchcards. Some people buy them and place them in existing crackers as an added gift for guests. These are extremely popular, and people now even play them digitally. Found on the most popular betting sites, they provide instant wins to players with low wagering. Some of these games are even branded with the names of well-known franchises, which not only adds to their appeal but can also lead to substantial prize pots.
However, if you want a cracker that has something a little special you can find them with many different items at a whole range of prices. There are even ones with some quite expensive gifts enclosed. It all depends on your needs and budget.
The History of the Humble Cracker
The Christmas cracker has been dated back to 1845 and was the brainchild of a London confectioner named Tom Smith. He had been inspired by French bonbons on a visit to Paris. These were tiny sweets wrapped in paper. His idea was to create a British version, each enclosed in paper with a small written motto. However, they did not sell well until he added the bang to give them a real edge.
Legend has it that he was inspired by the crackling of an open fire. He patented his design in 1847 and had perfected the cracker we know today sometime in the 1860s. This used the idea of two strips of paper bound by silver fulminate, which banged when pulled apart. His son Walter came up with the idea of adding gifts sourced from around the world, and paper hats were a tactic to stave off the competition.
Making Your Own Christmas Cracker
You can even choose to make your own paper crackers. All it takes is scissors, glue, crepe paper, ribbons, craft paper, and cracker snappers, which can be ordered online. The only real advanced preparation you need to do is collect cardboard toilet roll inners to make them sturdy. You can also buy kits that will contain all the items you need along with a handy guide.
The Christmas cracker is a long-held tradition in Britain. It will continue for some time more. If you have guests who do not know each other, it is a great way to encourage bonding and conversation, ensuring a great Christmas for all.