The Origin of Birthday Cake and Candles

A party just isn’t a party without cake…but ever wonder why? Sure, most people like cake (we are convinced those who say they don’t are kidding). But when and how did the birthday traditions we know today–the cake, the song, the candles, the wish–begin?

History of Birthday Cake

It is believed that the first actual birthday cake was made in Germany in the Middle Ages. The Germans would celebrate children’s birthdays with cake, calling the celebration Kinderfest.

Cakes originally were a coarse, bread-like product, and later became a much sweeter version, called Geburtstagorten.

In the 17th century birthday cakes were made more elaborate with details like icing, layers and decorations, like flowers. However, these kinds of cakes were only affordable by the wealthy, upper class due to the high-priced ingredients.

In the 18th century, food and baking utensils became more accessible, and therefore affordable. With that, the price of cakes went down significantly and the number of cakes produced went up considerably.

History of Birthday Candles

One theory is that the history of putting candles on cake began in Ancient Greece. The Greeks would make round cakes to honor Artemis, the goddess of the moon. The lit candles on the cake represented the glow of the moon, and the smoke from the candles carried their prayers and wishes to the Gods who lived in the skies.

Some scholars believe the tradition actually started in Germany, where a candle was supposedly placed on the cake to represent “the light of life”.

Today, most western cultures celebrate birthdays with cake, lit candles and a birthday song. The number of candles usually represents the age of the person being celebrated. Many believe that a silent wish must be made while blowing out all the candles with one breath. The wish cannot be told to anyone else, or it will not come true.

What was once just a simple pastry is now a world of complex varieties and flavors. Some of the most popular flavors include red velvet with cream cheese frosting, vanilla bean with buttercream frosting and the classic chocolate on chocolate. Mmm, we’re getting hungry now! The next time you’re happily celebrating a birthday with friends and family, think back on the long history of this fun and interesting tradition.

Shop Best Selling Birthday Flowers

Birthday Brights Bouquet

$65 - $95

Shipped in a Gift Box

The Birthday Brights Bouquet is a true celebration of color and life to surprise and delight your special recipient on their big day! Hot pink gerbera daisies and orange roses take center stage surrounded by purple statice, yellow cushion poms, green button poms, and lush greens to create party perfect birthday display. Presented in a modern rectangular ceramic vase with colorful striping at the bottom, "Happy Birthday" lettering at the top, and a bright pink bow at the center, this unforgettable fresh flower arrangement is then accented with a striped happy birthday pick to create a fun and festive gift.

Please Note: The bouquet pictured reflects our original design for this product. While we always try to follow the color palette, we may replace stems to deliver the freshest bouquet possible, and we may sometimes need to use a different vase.

Fiesta Bouquet

$60 - $95

Shipped in a Gift Box

The Fiesta Bouquet is composed of a lively mix, fit to celebrate any and every moment. With a combination of vibrant flowers, this florist–designed arrangement brings a pop of color and a burst of excitement as soon as it arrives.

Please Note: The bouquet pictured reflects our original design for this product. While we always try to follow the color palette, we may replace stems to deliver the freshest bouquet possible, and we may sometimes need to use a different vase.

Smiles & Sunshine

$45 - $85

Shipped in a Gift Box

Bring a rainbow of color to any home with this bouquet. Blooming with an assortment of alstroemeria and roses, this vibrant beauty makes the perfect expression for all your special occasions this season.

Please Note:The bouquet pictured reflects our original design for this product. While we always try to follow the color palette, we may replace stems to deliver the freshest bouquet possible, and we may sometimes need to use a different vase.