Christmas Crackers | Christmas Bon Bons

History of Christmas Bon Bons

Christmas bon bons, also known as Christmas crackers, were invented in 1847 by a London-based confectioner named Tom Smith. Smith initially sold sweets wrapped in a twist of tissue paper, inspired by French bonbon candies. To make his product more appealing, he began adding small trinkets and messages to the packaging.

The real innovation came when Tom Smith was inspired by the crackling sound of a log burning in a fireplace. He developed a mechanism using a small chemical reaction (silver fulminate on a strip of paper) to create a popping sound when the cracker was pulled apart. By the 1860s, his "crackers" became a staple of Christmas celebrations in England and quickly spread to other countries.

Smith’s sons later added paper crowns and jokes, evolving the bon bon into the festive tradition we know today.

How Christmas Bon Bons are Used

Christmas bon bons are typically used during holiday meals and festive gatherings, especially at Christmas. Here’s how they are enjoyed:

• Placement on the Table: Each cracker is placed at a guest's seat or alongside a dinner plate.
• Pulling the Cracker: Two people each grab an end of the cracker and pull it apart. A small "snap" or "bang" occurs as the strip inside ignites due to friction.
• Revealing the Contents: The person holding the larger half of the cracker typically gets the contents inside as a prize.
• Wearing the Crown: Most crackers contain a paper crown or hat, which people wear during the meal for a lighthearted, festive atmosphere.
• Reading Jokes or Trivia: Guests read aloud the jokes or trivia inside the cracker, which are often silly or pun-based.

What You Might Find Inside a Christmas Bon Bon

Christmas bon bons typically contain a variety of small items, including:

• A Paper Crown: Usually made of tissue paper, the crown is shaped like a traditional king's crown and is worn for fun.
• A Joke or Riddle: Simple, corny jokes or puns are common, such as:
Q: What do you get if you cross a snowman with a vampire? A: Frostbite.
• A Small Toy or Trinket: Examples include:
• Mini puzzles
• Spinning tops
• Keychains
• Plastic figurines
• A Small Practical Item: Some crackers include items like mini screwdrivers, bottle openers, or nail clippers (common in premium crackers).
• Other Fun Surprises: More expensive crackers may include small luxury gifts, like cufflinks, jewelry, or chocolates.

Modern Variations

While traditional bon bons are festive and fun, modern versions may include sustainable or handmade items. Some people opt for DIY crackers, filling them with personalized notes, treats, or even cash. Crackers can also be themed for specific events (e.g., weddings or birthdays).

Cultural Impact

Christmas bon bons have become a symbol of togetherness, laughter, and sharing during holiday gatherings, especially in the UK, Australia, and New Zealand, where they remain a cherished Christmas tradition.