German Christmas Customs

Unlike in many other countries, in Germany the Christmas celebration takes place on the evening of December 24. On that day the Christmas tree is being put up and decorated. In many homes the livingroom is closed for the children during the last hours before the celebration, so that the parents can decorate the room and put the presents there.

Who is said to bring the presents in Germany is not quite clear. First there is the "Weihnachtsmann" (Christmas man) whose identity is obscure, since Santa Claus brings his presents already on December 6. There is also the "Christkind" (Christ child) who obviously was meant to be little Jesus, but more and more turned into a girl during the times.

Anyway, the children (and not only they) are very excited and curious to see the presents. Spying through the key hole also belongs to Christmas. Of course, they do not really want to see anything, but it is very exciting. In the afternoon many families go to church - even those who usually never go. Afterwards the celebration takes place. The children may enter the Christmas room and can finally unwrap their presents.

Over the holiday often relatives are visited or come to visit. Then there is gift swapping again, and while the adults talk and eat, the kids try their new toys.

In the different areas of Germany there are also many local customs which I do not know about and which I couldn't write about here, because there are far too many.