Why German Kids Carry a Giant Cone on Their First Day of School
If you happen to stroll past a German elementary school on the first day of classes in August or September, you’ll see an endearing and colorful sight: children dressed in neat outfits, nervous but proud, clutching oversized decorated cones. These cones – often bigger than the children themselves – are called Schultüten. They are packed with sweets, toys, school supplies, and love.
The tradition of giving a Schultüte (also known as a Zuckertüte in eastern regions) is one of Germany’s most cherished childhood milestones. This charming custom transforms the stress of starting school into a celebration. It softens the first big step into structured education with sweetness – both literal and emotional.
In this article, we explore the origins of the Schultüte tradition, what goes inside one, how it’s celebrated across Germany, and why this cone carries so much cultural weight – even in a modern digital world.
The tradition dates back to the early 19th century. The first recorded instances appeared in:
1810s in Saxony and Thuringia – Regions such as Jena, Leipzig, and Dresden were among the first to introduce it.
Zuckertütenbäume (sugar cone trees) – In some legends, children were told that school cones grew on trees in teachers’ offices and would be given to them once they were “big enough” for school.
The practice spread gradually throughout German-speaking regions. By the 20th century, it became an expected and joyful part of Einschulung – the official first day of first grade, when children enter Grundschule (primary school).
What’s Inside a Schultüte?
Traditionally, the Schultüte was filled with sugar treats – hence the name Zuckertüte. But over time, the contents evolved into a delightful blend of:
Sweets and chocolates (Haribo, Milka, Kinder eggs)
School supplies (pencils, erasers, rulers, notebooks)
Small toys (figurines, puzzles, plush animals)
Craft items (stickers, stamps, colored paper)
Healthy snacks (granola bars, dried fruits)
Personalized notes or photo keepsakes
Parents often tailor the cone’s contents to the child’s interests. A dinosaur lover might get dino-themed stationery and toys; a budding artist might receive sketch pads and markers.
The key idea: start school with joy, surprise, and a sense of being cared for.
The Design: A DIY Labor of Love
In today’s Germany, Schultüten come in all shapes and themes. Some are store-bought, but many are lovingly handcrafted by parents, grandparents, or even kindergarten teachers. It’s common for:
Parents to spend weeks designing and decorating the cone
Themes to match the child’s passions (space, animals, unicorns, pirates)
Cones to be color-coordinated with school backpacks (Schulranzen)
Glitter, tissue paper, and 3D effects to elevate the look
The typical cone is made from sturdy cardboard and can be as long as 70–85 cm (27–33 inches). The top is tied shut with ribbon, often topped with crepe paper frills.
The Big Day: Einschulung Ceremony
Einschulung is more than just showing up to class. It’s a full-on event:
Held on a Saturday, not a weekday, to allow full family participation.
Family gatherings and photo sessions are a must.
A school assembly with music, performances, or short speeches often marks the start.
Children meet their teacher and classmates in person.
Finally, each child receives their Schultüte (if they don’t already have it in hand) and takes a ceremonial first walk into school.
This ritual marks a clear emotional transition. It says: “Now you are part of the big world.” And the cone is a sweet symbol of that rite of passage.
While the Schultüte is widespread throughout Germany, there are some regional nuances:
Eastern Germany (e.g. Saxony, Brandenburg) uses the term Zuckertüte more commonly.
Some parts of Bavaria and Austria have distinct customs around church blessings or class parades.
Multicultural families might blend the Schultüte with traditions from other cultures.
German-speaking parts of Switzerland and Alsace also practice similar customs, though not as universally.
In recent years, you’ll find:
Eco-friendly cones made from recycled materials
Reusable cloth cones that can serve as storage afterward
Digital celebrations for families abroad
Online tutorials for DIY cones becoming wildly popular
Why It Matters: Emotional and Social Importance
The Schultüte may seem simple – but it serves deeper cultural and psychological functions:
Eases school anxiety with comfort and excitement
Creates a positive association with learning
Honors the child’s maturity and independence
Gives parents a concrete way to celebrate and support
It also sparks connection among classmates: cones become conversation starters, comparisons, and a shared memory that bonds children in their first weeks.
Common Misconceptions
For those unfamiliar with the tradition, here are a few clarifications:
It’s not a gift from the school – it’s from parents or caregivers.
It’s not “just a treat bag” – it has emotional and ritual significance.
It’s not optional in most families – it’s expected and beloved.
Do Other Countries Have Similar Traditions?
The Schultüte is uniquely German, but there are some comparable customs:
Country
Tradition
Austria
Schultüte is common and celebrated similarly
Switzerland
Used selectively in German-speaking regions
Czech Republic
Children receive small welcome packages in some schools
Japan
Children wear formal dress for first day, but no gifts
USA
No standard first-day gift custom
Germany’s cone stands out for its scale, symbolism, and nationwide consistency.
Tips for Parents New to the Tradition
Plan early – Designing or buying a cone takes time.
Keep it age-appropriate – Don’t overstuff or add heavy items.
Balance treats and tools – Mix fun and functional items.
Label the cone – with the child’s name and class.
Get the photos! – It’s a once-in-a-lifetime memory.
The German Schultüte tradition transforms what might be a stressful rite of passage into something warm, playful, and deeply affirming. It’s more than a cone – it’s a symbol of care, community, and the joy of learning.
In a world where childhood moves quickly and technology often dominates, the Schultüte remains beautifully analog. Handcrafted, filled with surprises, and shared with family, it offers something priceless: a sweet beginning.
