Starting school is a major milestone in a child’s life, and in Germany, this big step is celebrated in a unique and heartwarming way—with a Schultüte. This charming tradition brings joy, excitement, and just the right amount of sugar to ease first-day jitters. Let’s explore what a Schultüte is, where it comes from, and how it’s celebrated today.
What Is a Schultüte?
A Schultüte, also known as a “school cone” or “sugar cone,” is a large, colorfully decorated paper cone given to children in Germany on their first day of school. It’s typically filled with sweets, school supplies, small toys, and other goodies. The goal? To sweeten the start of school and make it a day to remember.
These cones can be found in various sizes—some nearly as tall as the child receiving it—and they’re usually crafted with care by parents or purchased from shops in the weeks leading up to the school year.
The History of the Schultüte
The Schultüte tradition dates back to the early 19th century in the regions of Saxony and Thuringia. Back then, it was believed that teachers would hang sugar cones on the “Schultütenbaum” (school cone tree), and when the tree was full, it was time for the children to start school.
Originally, this tradition was mostly seen in Eastern Germany, but over the decades it spread across the country and is now an established part of German culture. It symbolizes the transition from kindergarten to formal education and is deeply cherished by both parents and children.
What’s Inside a Schultüte?
The contents of a Schultüte vary based on the child’s interests, but common items include:
Sweets and chocolates
Colored pencils and crayons
Erasers, pencil cases, or notebooks
Stickers or coloring books
Small toys or puzzles
A cuddly toy or a lucky charm
Parents often personalize the items to match their child’s hobbies, making the cone feel even more special.
How the Schultüte Is Celebrated
On the first day of school—known as the “Einschulung”—families gather to mark the big event. Children dress nicely, and many schools host welcoming ceremonies. After some speeches, songs, and perhaps a class introduction, the real highlight comes when children proudly hold their Schultüte for photos.
Some families wait until after the ceremony to let children open their cones, building up anticipation. It’s a day full of emotion, pride, and joy, especially for parents witnessing this important rite of passage.
Schultüte Beyond Germany
While the Schultüte tradition is deeply German, it has also spread to neighboring countries like Austria and parts of Switzerland. In recent years, it's even gained popularity among expat communities and educators worldwide who love the idea of celebrating the start of school in a fun, festive way.
Some international schools and kindergartens have adopted this custom, allowing children from other cultures to experience the joy of a Schultüte for themselves.
How to Make Your Own Schultüte
If you're inspired to try this tradition at home, it’s easy to make your own Schultüte. You’ll need:
Colored cardstock or poster board
Tissue paper for the top
Glue, tape, and scissors
Decorations like stickers, drawings, or fabric
Ribbon to tie it closed
Roll the paper into a cone, secure the edges, attach tissue paper to the top, and fill it with surprises. Add a ribbon and some personal touches, and you’re ready to go!
Final Thoughts
The Schultüte is more than just a paper cone—it’s a symbol of growth, encouragement, and celebration. This delightful tradition continues to bring smiles to generations of schoolchildren, marking a joyful beginning to their educational journey. Whether you’re in Germany or across the globe, embracing the spirit of the Schultüte is a wonderful way to make the first day of school a little more magical.