Christmas in Germany

As in many other countries, Christmas in Germany cannot be generalized. Nevertheless, it is characterized by traditions and customs that can vary depending on the region and generation. Over time, each family develops its own traditions and routines for celebrating this holiday. Nevertheless, we would like to introduce you to some general traditions that are part of Christmas for many Germans.

Advent and Advent calendars

The run-up to Christmas is almost as exciting as Christmas itself. Four weeks before Christmas Eve, the first candle on the Advent wreath is lit on Advent Sunday. Every Sunday thereafter, another candle is lit until finally all four candles are burning and Christmas is just around the corner.
The Advent calendar is also part of the tradition for many, both children and adults. Twenty-four days before Christmas, on December 1, the first door is opened, and every day after that, a little surprise awaits behind the door, such as chocolate or small gifts. This further increases the anticipation of Christmas.

Christmas markets

Christmas markets (link to blog) are also part of the pre-Christmas season. People meet up with friends and family there to enjoy the Advent season together. The food, the lights, the atmosphere, and the mulled wine or children’s punch are what make this atmosphere so special.

St. Nicholas Day (December 6)

St. Nicholas Day is an important tradition, especially for children. In the evening before, children place their clean boots or shoes outside the door and St. Nicholas fills them with sweets, nuts, and small gifts.

Christmas tree

The Christmas tree, also known as the fir tree or Christ tree, is an integral part of German Christmas. It is traditionally decorated with baubles, tinsel, and lights on Christmas Eve. Those who want to get into the Christmas spirit earlier now decorate their Christmas trees before Christmas Eve. All the gifts brought by Santa Claus or the Christ Child are placed under the Christmas tree.

Santa Claus and the Christ Child

In Germany, there are two different figures associated with the giving of gifts. One is Santa Claus, who is a mixture of the American “Santa Claus” and the German St. Nicholas. The other is the Christ Child, who is a kind of angel or young child who brings gifts dressed in a white robe. The Christ Child has a stronger religious background than Santa Claus.

Christmas Eve

For Germans, Christmas begins on December 24. In the late afternoon/evening, they get together with their loved ones, unwrap presents under the Christmas tree, attend a church service, and enjoy the evening with a Christmas dinner. The traditional Christmas dinner varies from region to region. But some of them include sausages and potato salad or Christmas goose or duck, with red cabbage and dumplings.

 

With this in mind, we wish all international students and everyone currently staying in Germany a wonderful Christmas season. We hope you experience many new things, have many interesting conversations, and collect many shared memories.