In Loudonville and Perrysville, holiday celebrations aren’t just about tree lightings or Santa visits, they’re all about pickles. Residents eagerly search for pickles hidden throughout the Mohican area as part of the annual Pickle Hunt, an event organized by the Cleo Redd Fisher Museum and supported by local businesses.
The Pickle Hunt draws inspiration from a Victorian tradition where families hid a pickle ornament in their Christmas tree, with the lucky finder earning an extra gift. The museum revived this idea over a decade ago, transforming it into a community-wide event. Throughout December, pickles are hidden in public spaces, and clues are shared in the Facebook group The Pickle Hunt. Clues start vague, narrowing throughout the day, until a hunter finds the pickle, claims the prize, and resets the hunt.
Winners keep their uniquely hand-painted pickle, painted by the L-P Art Club and custom 3D printed by Gorman-Rupp Industries, along with prizes worth $65 or more, donated by over a dozen local businesses. This year’s sponsors include City Sips Coffee Trailer, Truly Inspired Paper Co., Mohican Adventures, The Mouse & Peacock General Store, Four Seasons Flowers & Gifts, Buzzard’s Family Shoes, Lost Horizons Campground, Loudonville Lion’s Club, Golf Ball Manufacturing (GBM), Stake’s IGA, Goodwill, Modern Home Supply, Round Lake Golf Course, River Zen General Store, Creative Outlet, Gnat & Bee, and individual donors.
Museum curator Kenny Libben describes the buzz around the event: “The enthusiasm is incredible. Once December hits, people are always on the lookout.” This year’s Lord of the Pickles, tasked with hiding them, is past pickle champion Matt Armstrong.
To join the fun, search The Pickle Hunt on Facebook for clues and updates. The first pickle will be announced on December 1st. Whether competing solo or with family, it’s a holiday tradition sure to make everyone a little pickled with joy.
