Question
Did candy cane originate in pagan tradition?
Answer
No.
In 1670, an anonymous choirmaster at the Cologne Cathedral in Germany ordered crook-shape candy from craftsmen. He got inspired the shape from shepherding cane in the Bible. Then he handed out them among children as Christmas gift to keep them quiet along long Christmas ceremony.
In 17 century, candy was expensive, because its raw materials (sugar or honey) were expensive and its making process was manual. Candy was a craft, created by candy craftsmen. Due to its expensive price, candy was consumption of rich family. Candy in this time was precious gift for children, especially from poor families.
The custom of passing out the candy crooks at such ceremonies soon spread throughout Europe. First candy cane was white only. Red or red-green strips was added in 20 century to associate it with Christmas.
Candy cane is nothing to do with any pagan ritual.
Christmas on December 25 
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