Like many other nations, the Germans celebrate Christmas from the 24th until the 26th of December. However, the thrill of anticipation can be noticed everywhere at the beginning of December. You will find a Christmas Market in almost every town that has more than 10,000 habitants where people get together to get in the Christmas mood. That is not difficult there as you can enjoy glühwein (German mulled wine), Christmas cookies and other snacks. The kids can drive merry-go-round and other fun stuff. A visit to the local Christmas market with the whole bunch is a common tradition in many German families.
Another tradition is a richly decorated Christmas tree with presents underneath. You will also see Christmas lights at many houses. Christmas illumination got more and more popular in the last couple of years. A habit imported from the United States.
On Christmas Eve, the Germans traditionally go to church. They either go at the afternoon at 4 pm or late at night at around 11 pm. Unlike the US they give presents to each other after dinner at Christmas Eve. A traditional dish is a Christmas goose with different side dishes like potatoes, cabbage, string beans and so on. One thing is for sure: When celebrating Christmas with a German family you won’t be pinched of hunger as the banquet continues on Christmas Day and Boxing Day.
Many people in Germany take a vacation between Christmas and New Year. On Christmas Day, the families are on the move to visit their beloved ones. Because the country is rather small, the Germans try to spend time with all the family members so they travel a lot during the Christmas season. The weather is usually cold and dry. Sadly, you won’t get snow often in the lower areas so if you do, feel lucky. But with snow or without, Christmas time in Germany is alwaysa great experience.
