Germany is home to some of the world’s most famous holiday traditions, including Christmas Trees. These customs have inspired celebrations around the world.

🎄 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 tree is presented, and the children race to open presents.

Holidays Around the World: Germany

🎄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.

Holidays Around the World: Germany

You can learn more about the Christmas Markets Tradition in our Christmas Markets Vacation article.

Fröhliche Weihnachten! Merry Christmas! >^..^<

✨ Want to explore 32 days of global holiday traditions?

🎄Kids and families love our KeeKee Holidays Around the World Countdown Ornament,
which unlocks a new fun fact, video, or activity every day from December 1 to January 1.

👉 See the ornament here.