This 400-Year-Old German Holiday Trend Is Making My Vintage-Loving Heart Sing
I’m not here to judge you on your holiday decorating habits. But even if it seems way too early to decorate for the season, it’s definitely not too soon to start ordering whatever new pieces you’re eying for winter. Certain items have already sold out, and if I had to hedge my bets on decor I could see going viral in the way of Michaels’ viral bow garland, I’d suggest the magical spinning candle carousels that multiple companies are showing in their holiday collections.
Popularized in the Erzgebirge region of Germany and traditionally crafted from wood, these decorative tabletop pieces called “Weihnachtspyramide,” or Christmas pyramid, typically have figurines that twirl on a central platform, thanks to a small, windmill-like propeller that extends above them. The propellers are powered by the rising heat from lit tea lights, votives, or tapers incorporated in each piece.
Some of the latest designs have simplified this spinning mechanism even further. Now, you can find metal candle toppers and candleholders with similar propellers suspended over the open flame of jarred vessels or votives. From these propellers, festive shapes dangle and dance using the candle’s heat.
Whether you go with a simple metal model or an elaborate wood design (authentic from the Erzgebirge region or otherwise), you can find all kinds of holiday motifs and icons available. From evergreen trees and snowflakes to nativity scenes and smiling Santas, there’s likely something that’ll speak to you.
One quick word of caution: These pieces might not be the best idea if you have small kids or pets and are worried about the potential fire hazards they can pose with their open flames. If you want to try one out, keep it out of reach of little hands (and paws) and never leave one unattended when lit.
Now, onto the shoppable picks for making your kitchen counters, dining tables, and other tabletop surfaces just a little bit more fun and festive this holiday season.
