Origin and History of Christmas in Germany
It is believed that Christmas originated some 4000 years ago even before the birth of Christ to welcome the changes in nature. December 25th was chosen by the Romans to initially celebrate the rebirth of sun and nature. In present day world, December 25th marks the birthday of Jesus and is celebrated to remember his greatness and sacrifice. Like other countries Germany also celebrates Christmas to remember and honor Jesus. According to German history Christmas trees used during the celebration mark the honor of German God Yule.
Local name: Weihnachten
Ways to celeberate Weihnachten in Germany
In Germany the Christmas celebration begins a week before December. During Advent, wreaths are placed on the table and four candles are kept in the center. A month before Christmas, on every Sunday one candle is lit and the last one is lit on the Christmas Eve. Even though there are lots of preparations from a month before Christmas, but the actual celebration starts on December 6th which is known as St. Nicholas Day. According to German traditions on the night before December 6th, kids hang their shoes outside their door. It is believed that St. Nicholas’ a Holy Spirit travels from one house to another filling the shoes of good children with delicious treats and placing twigs in the shoes of naughty children. The Christmas trees are an integral part of German Christmas celebration, thus the trees are decorated beautifully a day before Christmas i.e. on Christmas Eve. On Christmas day like any other countries the celebration begins with special prayers in church. This is followed by the traditional Christmas meal which includes plump roast goose, turkey, suckling pig, white sausage, macaroni salad, marzipan etc.
