weihnachten essay in german

Christmas in Germany (Weihnachten)

by Deutsch mit Leo
5 minute read

When did the tradition of celebrating Christmas appear? What attributes of Christmas must be present in every home on the eve of the holiday? How do the Germans actually celebrate it? Today we’ll talk about how Catholic Europe is preparing for Christmas, as well as about gifts, expectation of a miracle and magic!

A decorated Christmas tree, gifts and the whole family at the festive table – this is how most Germans imagine ordinary Christmas. How was Christmas celebrated before? Interestingly, many of the customs that are inseparable from Christmas today have not been heard before.

In ancient times, pagan tribes celebrated the winter solstice, which fell on December 21st . Before the advent of Christianity, many Germanic peoples worshiped a pantheon of gods, that is, they were pagans. The pagan holiday was called Julfest . People were glad that the daylight hours were now getting longer and longer. Today the word “Jul” means “Christmas” in some Scandinavian languages.

In 45 BC, a new Julian calendar was introduced. According to this calendar, the day of the winter solstice was postponed to 25 December . In the 3rd century A.D. a Christian church was founded, which banned the pagan holiday, but this custom was already deeply rooted in society.

The church decided to celebrate the birth of Christ on December 25th.

Already in those days, people decorated their houses on the eve of the holiday with fir branches. Evergreen branches symbolized fertility and vitality.

Traditions today

Celebration traditions have changed over time. Since the middle of the 18th century, a decorated Christmas tree is being placed in the living rooms. Christmas becomes a family holiday, during which it is customary to stay at home and spend time with loved ones.

It is important to note that no matter how changing customs, Christmas is always the main holiday for Germans.

Did you know that…

From the 3rd century A.D., December 25 is officially considered a church holiday.
In Germany and Austria, December 25 and 26 are legally recognized as days off.
In German-speaking countries, Christmas starts on December 24th, Christmas Eve. At the same time, December 24 is not officially a non-working day.
Immediately after December 25, two more holidays often follow, among them St. Stephen’s Day (Stefanitag) .

Christmas markets

Christmas markets play a big role in the pre-Christmas period in Germany. In every city you will find at least one such fair, if not more.

Traditionally, fairs start working with the first Advent , but today this rule is practically not followed and fairs have been opened almost since November.

And no wonder, because the demand for Christmas gifts and attractions is huge. Every year, crowds of tourists from all over the world flock to German markets to:

drink warming mulled wine,
taste gingerbread,
buy cute souvenirs for family and friends,
meet old friends and
just enjoy this magical holiday atmosphere.

At the Christmas market, they buy candles, Christmas decorations, and taste German Christmas food. The tradition of Christmas markets dates back to the 14th century. One of the most famous Christmas markets in Germany is in Nuremberg ( Christkindlesmarkt ). But in other cities, for example, in Dresden and Aachen, you can enjoy fabulous festive markets.

Christmas Eve

Interestingly, Christmas in Germany is not limited to Christmas Eve and a couple of weekends. The magic begins a few weeks, or rather, four Sundays before the main holiday ( Advent ) . It’s time for the Christmas markets – it’s time to decorate your home for Christmas. One of the symbols of this period is the Christmas wreath ( Adventskranz ) with four candles. On the first Advent, the first candle is lit, every next Sunday another candle is lit. So on Christmas Eve, all four candles burn on the wreath. During this December time, Germans tend to spend more time with family and friends over punch and bake traditional biscuits ( Plätzchen ) and learn Christmas songs .

Advent calendar

An integral part of Advent for children, as well as for many adults in Germany, is the Advent calendar ( Adventskalender ). We are talking about a calendar with 24 boxes with gifts. Every day – from December 1 to December 24 – you can open only one window and get your surprise. Gifts can be sweets, stationery, Christmas decorations. Such a calendar helps to brighten and sweeten the period of agonizing anticipation of Christmas. We talked in detail about the options for advent calendars and their content in our earlier article.

Nikolaustag

An important and exciting holiday for German children – December 6, the day of Nikolaus (Nikolaustag) . On this day, children’s boots and socks (pre-cleaned!) Are filled with sweets as if by magic. What miracles! According to legend, it was Nicholas the Wonderworker (Saint Nikolaus) who was so generous that he gave everything he had to the needy and children. But the gifts receive only those children who have behaved well all year receive gifts. Those who were hooligans will receive a scolding from Nikolaus’ assistant, Ruprecht’s servant (Knecht Ruprecht).

When the four candles on the wreath are lit, all the sweets from the Advent calendar have been eaten, luminous garlands have been hung around the house for a long time, the Christmas tree is decorated and gifts are wrapped – it’s Christmas Eve time . What happens on this day? Since this is officially a working day, the whole family gathers at home in the late afternoon. While some family members are busy in the kitchen preparing a festive dinner, others are putting on a nativity scene (a sculptural depiction of the scene of the Nativity of Christ in the Catholic tradition). There is no definite answer about what is being prepared for the Christmas table. But it is true that almost every family has a recipe for a Christmas dish, passed down from generation to generation, which, like a little secret, brings all family members closer together. After the festive feast, some families read or sing Christmas stories. Then comes the time of gifts, beloved by all children.

Expectation and reality

There are many kind, family or romantic Christmas movies that many of us watch from year to year. We will not list everything, sites about cinema make fresh selections for the holidays every year. And I would like to mention the German TV series Loriot , or rather the 14th episode of the series dedicated to Christmas. The series shows the life of an ordinary German family – grandfather Loriot, dad, mom and son. The Germans are quite ironic people, and do not mind laughing at themselves. And especially over all those rules and customs that they themselves invented. The series “ Weihnachten bei Hoppenstedts ” shows a typical Christmas in the average German family. Despite the presence of all the Christmas trappings – choral music, a Christmas tree, wrapped gifts and a dressed-up family – there is no feeling of celebration from what you see. Everything looks like the pictures from the expectation vs reality category. The episode successfully portrays the German love of order and planning. Parents cannot agree on what should first go according to the holiday program – a verse from their son or unpacking gifts. Unbelievable, but even such an thing as to relax ( gemütlich machen ) is included in the evening plan!

The magic is around us!

However, as difficult as last year was, Christmas is a time for magic and happiness. This is the time that is customary to spend with loved ones, the time when it is pleasant to give and receive even the smallest gifts, which means that this is the time of magic!

We wish all of you, our dear friends, that your holidays (Catholic or Orthodox Christmas and New Year) will be filled with warmth and magic, so that wishes come true, mulled wine is delicious, and meetings are warm!

Expanding Your Christmas Vocabulary

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Christmas (Weihnachten) in Germany

Table of Contents

Christmas, or “Weihnachten,” is a joyous and cherished holiday in Germany that brings families and communities together. In this article, we will explore the historical significance of this day, why it is a public holiday, the traditions, regional specialties, and, of course, what Germans eat on this special day.

Historical Significance

Christmas in Germany has deep historical roots dating back to the Middle Ages. The holiday has evolved over time, combining Christian traditions with pre-Christian customs. One of the most enduring symbols of this festival’s celebration is the Christmas tree, which originated in the region and was popularized by Martin Luther in the 16th century. Today, Christmas in Germany is a time to celebrate the birth of Jesus Christ and to spread warmth and goodwill.

Public Holiday

In Germany, Christmas is celebrated as a public holiday on D ecember 25th and 26th. It’s a time when most businesses are closed, and people gather with their loved ones to commemorate the occasion.

Christmas (Weihnachten) Traditions in Germany

Germans have a host of unique traditions associated with Christmas. Advent calendars and wreaths are used to count down the days until December 25th. On December 6th, children eagerly await Saint Nicholas’ arrival, who leaves small gifts and treats in their shoes. Christmas markets (Weihnachtsmärkte) pop up in cities and towns, where visitors can enjoy mulled wine, gingerbread cookies, and shop for handcrafted gifts. Caroling and nativity scenes are also essential components of the holiday.

Regional Specialties

Each region in Germany has its own unique traditions and specialties. In Bavaria and Austria, people still uphold the tradition of Krampus, a horned and hairy creature who accompanies Saint Nicholas. Craftsmen in the Erzgebirge region craft intricate wooden ornaments and figurines. The Saarland specializes in well-known gingerbread houses, while the Rhineland features parades and processions during the festive season.

Things to buy on Christmas (Weihnachten)

During Christmas, people like buying presents for their family and friends, such as advent calendar , winter clothes , gadgets or home appliances , or special gifts . They also get decorations like ornaments and lights to make their homes festive, and many have a Christmas tree . Greeting cards with good wishes are popular, and some have calendars with surprises each day until Christmas.

What Germans Eat on Christmas (Weihnachten)?

Christmas Eve, or “Heiliger Abend,” is the main day of celebration in Germany. Families gather for a festive meal that typically includes roast goose, duck, or a hearty Christmas ham . Potato salad and sauerkraut are common side dishes. Stollen , a sweet fruitcake, and marzipan treats are popular desserts. Gingerbread , known as Lebkuchen , is a beloved holiday snack. On morning, children find presents under the tree.

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This festival in Germany is a time of rich traditions, delicious food, and heartfelt celebrations. Understanding the historical significance, the reason for it being a public holiday, the unique traditions, regional specialties, and the delightful cuisine can help anyone appreciate the beauty of this festive season in Germany. So, whether you’re planning to visit or simply want to embrace the spirit of German Christmas at home, you now have a glimpse into this enchanting holiday.

Fun things to do at Christmas time in Germany

Buy christmas gifts online – amazon.

Visit our website for more articles related to studying in Germany . Follow us on Instagram and Facebook for more tips & information on studying in Germany.

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What Is Weihnachten?: All About Christmas in Germany

Lifestyle & Culture

Last updated on November 2nd, 2024 at 04:43 pm

On behalf of everyone here at Remitly , Merry Christmas to our customers in Germany and around the world.

Despite 40% of Germans having no religious affiliation, Christmas in Germany is a widely celebrated holiday. More than three-quarters of all Germans observe it, and cities and villages across the country are transformed into winter wonderlands every December in honor of the season.

Let’s explore German Christmas traditions from past to present, from Krampus to Christmas angels.

What is christmas in germany called.

In Germany, Christmas time is called Weihnachten.

The word combines the German verb weihen, which means “to consecrate,” and nacht, which means “night.”

During the season, the standard greeting is “Frohe Weihnachten!” To pronounce it, say: “FRO-eh VINE-ahk-tin.”

What is Krampusnacht?

Germans believe that St. Nicholas has a devilish sidekick named Krampus.

While the good children receive gifts, the monstrous figure punishes the naughty ones. On December 5, he visits to scare children who have misbehaved.

In Bavaria, people often dress in scary costumes, don horns, and knock on doors, asking if any naughty children are inside. Parents may invite them in as a part of the spooky fun.

What is Sankt Nikolaus Tag?

Also known as Nikolaustag, Sankt Nikolaus Tag is St. Nicholas Day, a celebration of St. Nikolaus, the Bishop of Myra.

Saint Nicholas Day takes place the day after Krampusnacht on December 6. In the evening, children place stockings or sock-shaped bags outside of their doors in hopes of a visit from the beloved figure.

When they wake up on December 7, they find oranges, chocolates, small toys, and other goodies waiting for them to open. Although St. Nikolaus is a religious figure, this tradition is secular and observed by anyone who wants to.

What is Heiliger Abend?

Heiliger Abend or Heiligabend is Christmas Eve in Germany.

Businesses usually open in the morning but typically close in the afternoon. The evening brings the main celebration of the Christmas holiday season. Families gather together to exchange gifts and share a meal.

Religious people may read the story of the birth of Jesus Christ aloud. Singing Christmas carols is also popular in many German homes.

Around 25% of Germans attend church in celebration of the holidays. Often, services occur at midnight, with families heading to their places of worship after opening presents and enjoying a meal.

However, some churches have begun to hold earlier services, allowing people to begin the evening with worship and then return home to start their celebrations.

What is Erster Feiertag?

Erster Feiertag translates literally to “the first holiday,” and it’s the name for December 25. The date is a legal holiday in Germany, and most businesses are closed for the day.

Christmas Day is also a time for family. Often, extended family travels to gather under one roof for a large holiday feast.

What is Zweiter Feiertag?

Germans call December 26 Zweiter Feiertag “The Second Holiday.” Germany recognizes the day as another legal holiday, and most businesses stay closed in honor of its observance.

For many families, the day is a time for quieter conversation and catching up with family once the celebrations have slowed down.

The focus of December 26 is often Besinnlichkeit—a state of peace, tranquility, and reflection that soothes the mind and the body.

What does a German Christmas tree look like?

The modern Christmas tree, or Weihnachtsbaum, originated in Germany.

During the 16th century , devout Christians began bringing trees into their homes as part of their celebrations. Legend has it that Martin Luther, the founder of the Protestant Church, came up with the idea of decorating the tree with lighted candles. Families who couldn’t afford or find trees would instead construct Christmas pyramids out of wood.

Early Christmas trees were usually fir, but spruce trees are popular today. Instead of candles, the Germans use string lights to illuminate the branches.

Christmas decorations are similar to those in the U.S. and Canada, including glass baubles, tinsel, and sweets. Typically, a star or angel goes on top of the tree, and presents go beneath it.

One significant difference between Christmas trees in Germany and other parts of the world is when people take them out of storage for the season.

In many other countries, it’s common to put up a tree in early December and enjoy it throughout Advent. However, Germans usually only decorate their trees on December 24 as a part of the activities of Heiliger Abend.

Is there Santa Claus in Germany?

In Germany, there are three figures commonly associated with Christmas. The first is Sankt Nikolaus, or “Saint Nicholas,” who visits homes on December 6th, as explained above. Usually, he wears a bishop’s hat and holy vestments—including a red robe. He carries a scepter, a sack of fruit or presents, and a copy of the Bible.

Santa Claus is known as Weihnachtsmann. He’s depicted similarly to Santa in other countries and wears a red velvet suit trimmed with white fur.

Germans associate him with the giving spirit of the season, and you may see his likeness on various decorations or people dressed as him at multiple events. However, he doesn’t slide down chimneys and deliver gifts.

The job of bringing Christmas gifts falls on the shoulders of the Christkindl—an angel with blonde hair, gold or white wings, and a regal gold crown. In Germany, it’s this Christmas angel that children pose with for pictures and share their holiday gift wish lists. The name translates to Christ Child.

What are Weihnachtsengel?

Weihnachtsengel are Christmas angels—a common theme in holiday decor throughout Germany. In anticipation of the holiday season, many people place small angel figurines and larger angel statues on sideboards, shelves, mantels, tables, and desks.

Angel decorations are also common for trees. Germans see the angel as a religious figure and a general symbol of peace, hope, joy, and togetherness.

What are some traditional German Christmas carols?

Caroling is among the favorite holiday traditions celebrated in Germany.

Often, groups of young children dressed as the three wise men go door to door and sing Christmas carols to spread holiday cheer. These groups of carolers are known as Sternsinger or star singers. They sometimes collect money from the people they sing to and then donate the proceeds to a local church.

Some favorite German Christmas songs include:

Stille Nacht (Silent Night)
Am Weihnachtsbaum, die Lichter brennen (On the Christmas Tree the Lights Are On)
O Tannenbaum (O Christmas Tree)
Leise rieselt der Schnee (Softly Falls the Snow)
Es ist ein Ros’ entsprungen (Lo, How a Rose E’er Blooming)
Alle Jahre wieder (Every Year Again)
Morgen kommt der Weihnachtsmann (Santa is Coming Tomorrow)
Kling, Glöckchen (Ring, Little Bell)
Kommet, ihr Hirten (Come, All Ye Shepherds)
Herbei, o ihr Gläubigen (O Come, All Ye Faithful)

What are the Advent traditions in Germany?

As in other countries, the Advent season consists of the weeks leading up to Christmas, and in Germany, counting the days remaining until the holiday is customary.

This tradition originated with the Germans, who likely began marking doors with chalk and lighting candles during Advent in the mid-19th century .

One popular advent tradition among Germans is the Adventskalender or “advent calendar.”

Although people now use these calendars worldwide, they originated in Germany, with the first printed versions appearing in newspapers during the early 20th century. These early advent calendars had 24 pictures attached to a piece of cardboard.

Eventually, doors got added to each day, which is where today’s Adventskalenders came from. Families place sweets and small trinkets in each drawer, and everyone gathers around to open the one for the day and share the gifts inside.

The Adventskranz, or “advent wreath,” is another popular tradition. It’s a decorated evergreen candle ring that surrounds four candles. On the first Sunday in December, families light the first candle.

Then, they light the second and third candles on the second and third Sundays, respectively. Finally, the last candle is lit on Christmas Day to mark the arrival of the holiday.

Some Germans use three purple candles and one pink or white one in their advent wreaths, while others use candles that are all the same color.

What do Germans eat and drink at Christmas?

Germans enjoy a variety of tasty foods and beverages on Christmas Eve and Christmas Day.

Some traditional offerings include:

Glühwein: An alcoholic beverage made by heating red wine filled with spices, oranges, and raisins
Feuerzangenbowle: An alcoholic beverage made by lighting a rum-soaked lump of sugar over the top of mulled wine, allowing it to drip down into the drink
Lebkuchen: Sweet, spicy Christmas cookies with a cake-like texture in shapes like stars, hearts, and trees
Stollen : A traditional German Christmas cake made with flour, nuts, spices, and candied or dried fruits topped off with a layer of powdered sugar
Kartoffelsalat: A potato salad that typically features sliced onions, spices, vinegar, oil, parsley, and broth served warm

Where are the best Christmas markets in Germany?

Many cities throughout Germany host Christmas markets during the weeks leading up to the holidays. The following are some of the most famous German Christmas markes that attract visitors from Europe and all over the world.

The Nürnberger Christkindlesmarkt is the largest and oldest Christmas market in Germany. Each year, it draws artisans worldwide and boasts over 150 booths. Tinsel angels and prune people dolls are among the most beloved treasures. Food is also an essential part of the festivities, with gingerbread and bratwurst being two of the most well-known offerings.

Dresden Striezelmarkt is traced back to 1434, making it one of the oldest in the country. In addition to merchants, the market is home to a massive Christmas pyramid that creates excellent photo opportunities. Smaller handcrafted versions are available from many artisans onsite, and you can sample delicious stollen while you shop.

With its medieval architecture, the city of Rothenburg has a fairy tale feel made even more magical by its holiday market. Sponsored by the city’s Christmas Museum , the event features many handicrafts and tasty schneebälle, snowballs of dough covered with powdered sugar, chocolate, and nuts. In addition to shopping the stalls, visitors can head to the flagship store of the decor brand Käthe Wohlfahrt and shop three floors of ornaments and decorations.

What are some popular destinations during Christmas in Germany?

If you’re living in Germany or planning a holiday vacation, here are some places to visit to get into the spirit of the season:

Berlin Cathedral: Thousands gather for Christmas Eve services at the Berlin Cathedral each year. It was consecrated in 1905 and fully restored in 1993.
Bamberg: Each year, Bamberg , located in Northern Bavaria, displays historically themed nativity scenes at museums, public buildings, chapels, and the town’s cathedral. You can pick up a map to help you find the various sites that bring the Christmas story to life.
Gengenbach: For Christmas, Genengenbach , a town in Baden-Württemberg, transforms its town hall into the world’s largest advent calendar house. It has 24 windows with decorative scenes, and a new one lights up each night in the countdown to December 25.
Essen: At the UNESCO World Heritage site in Essen , you can skate on a giant outdoor rink while learning more about the historic Zollverein Coking Plant. There’s also a curling rink onsite for those who want to try the sport. The site holds a disco party twice throughout the holiday season, playing retro songs and illuminating the rink with colored lights.

The season’s common greeting is “Frohe Weihnachten!” pronounced “FRO-eh VINE-ahk-tin.”

Krampusnacht, or “Krampus Night,” occurs on December 5. On this night, St. Nicholas’s mythical sidekick, Krampus, is said to punish naughty children. In Bavaria, people dress as Krampus with horns and scary costumes, visiting homes in a spooky celebration.

Christmas Eve, is Germany’s main Christmas celebration. Families gather for a festive meal, gift exchanges, and carols. Some attend church services, traditionally held at midnight, though many now occur earlier in the evening.

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