Lemon stick facts for kids
Lemon sticks are a type of sweet treat that looks a lot like a candy cane or a peppermint stick. But instead of mint, they get their yummy taste from lemon oil and other sour ingredients. They are usually clear with a white stripe. It's important to know that a regular lemon stick is different from a "Baltimore lemon stick," which is a special kind of treat from Baltimore.
Since 1942, a company called Giambri's has been one of the candy makers that produces these tasty lemon sticks.
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Baltimore Lemon Sticks: A Sweet Summer Tradition
In the city of Baltimore, Maryland, there's a fun summer tradition involving a special kind of lemon stick. These are often called lemon peppermint sticks. They are a big part of the culture of Baltimore, especially during the yearly Baltimore Flower Mart.
What is a Baltimore Lemon Stick?
A Baltimore lemon stick is a peppermint candy stick that is stuck right into a fresh lemon. When you eat them together, you get a mix of sweet, sour, and minty flavors. It's a unique taste sensation!
How to Make and Enjoy Them
Making a Baltimore lemon stick is quite simple. First, the top of a small lemon is cut off. Then, a hole is made in the lemon's soft inside. Finally, a soft peppermint stick is pushed into the hole.
To enjoy this treat, you suck on the peppermint stick. At the same time, you can squeeze the lemon. This creates a sweet, minty, and lemony drink. It's a refreshing way to cool down!
Where to Find Them
This tradition might have started in France a long time ago. Today, Baltimore lemon sticks are mostly sold at the mid-spring Flower Mart. This event is held by the Women's Civic League. Even though they are famous at the Flower Mart, many people in Baltimore also make these treats at home or at parties throughout the summer. It's a beloved local custom.
