Birthday candle tradition: A surprisingly old custom explained

The tradition of blowing out birthday candles has evolved over centuries, with roots in ancient Greek rituals and 18th-century German customs. At Kinderfest, candles on cakes symbolized age and good fortune, and extinguishing them was linked to making wishes. As migration and popular culture spread the practice in the 19th century, it became a cherished global ritual for celebrating life's milestones.