Holidays Around the World: Germany

Christmastime in Germany is truly a fairytale experience. And many of the classic holiday traditions began in Germany.

Tannenbaum: Christmas Tree

The first Christmas tree, Tannenbaum, was produced in Germany. On Heiligabend (Christmas Eve), German parents secretly decorate the Tannenbaum with candies, nuts, ornaments, and lights. A bell is rung, the Tannenbaum is presented, and the children race to open presents and take goodies from the tree.

Christmas Wreath

The custom of bringing evergreen trees inside during winter began in the 16th century among northern and eastern Europeans, and Germans began the Christmas tree tradition. Bringing the trees inside included cutting off pieces to fit the tree inside and give it a nice shape. The extra pieces of greenery were then used to make wreaths.

Weihnachtsmarkt: Christmas Markets

Christmas Markets originated in Germany in the 14th century, although the Vienna, Austria “December market” started in 1294 and was a kind of Christmas market. Initially, the fairs provided only food and supplies for the cold winter, but they soon became a holiday tradition. Starting on Advent at the end of November and continuing until noon on Christmas Eve, they are called Christkindlmarkt (meaning “Christ child market) or Weihnachtsmarkt.