Unusual Christmas Traditions in Germany
Many countries have their own unique ways of celebrating the Christmas holiday, andGermanyis no exception. Many of the traditions practiced in the United States and around the world are German in origin. For example, the Christmas tree can be traced back to 16th century Germany when people would decorate their trees with berries, nuts and flowers crafted from paper. Christmas lights were inspired by reformist Martin Luther, the first to adorn his Christmas tree with candles.Foodis an integral part of any holiday celebration — no matter where you are in the world. In Germany,spiced mulled wineis a favorite Christmas beverage. The Christmas dinner in Germany is quite the event. Foods commonly served at a German Christmas dinner include goose and carp. Cheese fondue is also a common staple. On Christmas Eve, Germans enjoy a hearty meal of sausages and potato salad, or sometimes casseroles or soups. Traditional German desserts include Black Forest Cake and Grape Custard Pie.GermanChristmas marketsare extremely popular establishments found all over the country. Christmas markets sell treats like warm cider, grilled sausages, fruitcake, marzipan bread and much more. Revelers can be found taking rides on a whimsical carousel and enjoying Christmas carols. Due to the popularity of German Christmas markets, similar markets are popping up in countries all over the world.Germany isn’t without its share of quirky Christmas traditions. Some German families adhere to the tradition of the Christmas pickle. According to legend, theChristmas pickleis a glass ornament that is hidden somewhere in the home. The first child to locate the ornament is bestowed a prize and good luck for the upcoming year. Germans celebrate this legend by hanging a blown glass pickle ornament last on their Christmas trees.Christmas spidersare also unusual German Christmas traditions. Germans often decorate their Christmas trees with crystal spiderwebs and spider ornaments. The legend of the Christmas spider is a 200-year old tale of a destitute old woman who had no decorations for her tree. When she awoke on Christmas morning, a friendly spider who lived in her home had decorated her tree with beautiful, glistening webs.
Despite what others may consider unusual German customs — there's no doubt that Christmas in Germany is a holiday to remember. The holiday season in Germany is one of rich, delicious cuisine, dazzling lights and decorations, fun festivals and so much more.
