When it comes to Christmas, we all can identify a few classic decorations we are all used to seeing. There are, of course, reindeer, elves, snowmen, and obviously the manger scene.
But there's one type of ornament that catches some people off guard, even though the tradition goes back a long, long, ways.
If you see a spider ornament on a tree, it's not because the person just prefers Halloween, there is actually a beautiful folklore surrounding Christmas spiders, and its said to originate in either Germany or the Ukraine.
While it's tricky to learn the true origins of the legend, the moral of the story remains. There are thought to be a few versions, but here is how the most popular version goes:
The Spider and the Christmas Tree
A widow lived with her children in a small hut, but they didn't have much money. One year the children noticed that a pine cone had fallen and a new tree was growing, and they got excited that they may get to have a Christmas tree of their own.
The children made sure the tree grew well, and when it was finally time to cut it down and bring it inside, they were so happy.
However, when they brought it in, they were a little bit disappointed knowing that despite all their efforts, they couldn't afford to decorate the tree.
The plain pine stood in their living room, and the widow was sad knowing that her children wouldn't get the beautiful tree they had wanted.
The spiders in their hut heard the cries from the children and the widow, and that's when they decided they would help.
The tiny insects worked through the night and strung webs across the tree in beautiful patterns, using their webs to create the silky images.
When the children woke up they couldn't believe their eyes, the tree was decorated in a beautiful and unique way they could never had imagined.
They called their mother to come see it, and as she stood looking at the tree, one of the children opened a window, letting in a ray of sunlight that caused the webs to sparkle in a magical way.
The act of kindness from the spiders gave the family so much joy and helped them feel grateful for all that they have.
The Tradition Continues
As with most folklore, the legend changes as it is passed down, but one thing that has remained is that the spiders decorated the tree for the family that needed it most.
Now, as a way to remember that finding joy in the simple things is more important than having a bunch of money, people place beautiful spider ornaments on their trees.
You can find these ornaments all over the place, and we've found a few that you can add to your tree.
24k Gold Plated Crystal Studded Spider Ornament
I guess this kind of goes against the point of finding joy in the simple things, but you know what, it's only $15.99 so if you want to add a little bit of extra sparkle to your tree, why not? Get it here.
Ho Ho Ho Christmas Spider
This one will be perfect to blend in with your classic red and white decor! Get it here.
Spider on his web
This delicate web with a sparkling spider is the perfect addition to any tree. Get it here.
Hanging Amber Glass Spider
This elegant glass ornament makes for the perfect gift so you can share the story of the Christmas spider with others. Get it here.
Christmas Bulb Spiders
This unique and crafty take on the Christmas spider is perfect for your tree, and if you're feeling crafty, you may be able to recreate it yourself! If that seems like too much work though, you can get a set of three here.
Beaded Spider Ornaments
These delicate little ornaments actually come in a DIY kit, so it's the perfect way to teach your kids or grandkids about the legend while they make their own little spiders! Get it here.
Glass Bead Spider Ornament
It's a pretty golden spider that will definitely make your tree sparkle. Get one here.
HT - Wikipedia / Simplemost / Country Living / Vancouver Christmas Market / Kraftmstr
