Welcome to an excursion into the festive world of Christmas in Germany, where mulled wine flows and lights dance.
Let’s embark on a journey through the festive customs and traditions of this unique Christmas celebration!
Advent Season: The Scent of Cinnamon Fills the Air
The pre-Christmas season in Germany is as cozy as a hug from grandma. As early as November, the scent of freshly baked cookies and spiced mulled wine wafts through the streets. People rush to Christmas markets to stock up on handmade gifts and get lost in a blanket of lights. There’s hardly a place where you won’t stumble upon a steadfast Christmas tree – the undisputed king of the festive season!
Saint Nicholas, the Man of the Day
On December 6th, Saint Nicholas appears, armed with a sack full of gifts and an impressive list of well-behaved and less well-behaved individuals. Children place their boots outside the door on the eve, hoping that the kindly man in red with a flowing beard will pay a visit. Sweets for the good ones, little lumps of coal for the mischievous – the perfect blend of bribery and threat!
Christmas Markets: A Paradise for Sweet Tooths
German Christmas markets are like an Eldorado for those who can’t resist the sweet call of gingerbread, roasted almonds, and steaming mulled wine. Here, it’s not just about shopping; it’s also about indulging, as if calories don’t matter during the holidays. Perhaps that’s the secret to winter coziness – a full stomach and a warm heart.
Christmas Eve: Glowing Lights and Gift Giving
The climax approaches: Christmas Eve, the centerpiece of the German Christmas celebration. Families gather around the festively decorated Christmas tree, adorned with so many lights that it outshines the solar system. Traditionally, there’s a solemn gift exchange, accompanied by shared songs and a feast that sends the calorie counter on vacation.
New Year’s Eve: Fireworks, Fortune Telling, and Resolutions
After the last shreds of wrapping paper are tidied up, Germany prepares for New Year’s Eve. Fireworks and rockets illuminate the sky as people try to glimpse into the future through lead pouring. Resolutions for the new year are made, usually accompanied by a glass of sparkling wine and a cheerful „Cheers to the New Year!“
That was our whirlwind tour through the festive landscapes of Christmas in Germany.
May your Christmas tree stand tall, your cookies be golden brown, and your mulled wine flow abundantly. Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!
