By Allison Peng
Christmas is the most important festival in Germany. Four weeks before Christmas Eve, that is, near the end of November, a joyful and bustling atmosphere can be felt throughout the country, and it lasts until January 6. Generally speaking, German families set off to a yearly Christmas market that starts during the first week, usually on Saturday. These markets sell everything related to Christmas: foods, drinks, ornaments, souvenirs; the most famous one is in Nürnberg. Then the following Sunday is time to light the first candle of hope on a green wreath that stands for permanent life. There are three other candles waiting to be lit for each of the next three weeks. When the forth one is lit, Christmas is just around the corner! Christmastime means a lot to kids, since they can expect Santa Claus to visit them twice – on December 6 and December 24. The former date is Santa Claus’ birthday; children prepare a short boot or a plate in the doorway the night before, together with a list of some big presents they would like to receive on Christmas Day. If they have behaved well through the past year, lots of sweets would be found in the doorway the next morning. On the 24th, the presents they requested will be there, too. But if you weren’t so good this year, you had better be ready for Santa Claus’ partner, a man in black holding a stick and a black book, inside which is the record of what bad things you did. This is really frightening and educating to children. Parents may even hire a stranger to play this role! So honesty is the best policy when you are asked, “have you been a good kid?” Also, children receive a beautifully patterned Advent Calendar with 24 small doors on it; behind which are chocolates, poems, or little gifts. From December 1 to 24 they open a door each day and get what is inside. But some naughty children full of curiosity probably can’t wait and open all of them on the first day! Making Christmas food together is also important in German families. Children design their own cookies. The savory smell mixes with that of gingerbread, overflowing out of every kitchen. Furthermore, a kind of heavy tart called Stollen is indispensable for this occasion, which consists of dried fruit, raisins, almonds, and rum. Its surface is often coated with thick sugar icing, and they are very large. All family members cooperate to complete it. They have to start six weeks before Christmas Day so that the finished product can be served on schedule. By the way, this cake is hard, but it is really worth chewing – and chewing again. It’s well known that Germans love alcohol, and a particular drink is popular at Christmas – Glühwein, made by heating red wine and then adding spice, cinnamon, and sugar. During this period, having a cup of hot wine with your family and friends really brings much warmth. Putting up a Christmas tree! In addition to the decorations of candles, stars, ribbons, and colored glass balls, Germans usually place a manger scene with Mary, Joseph, baby Jesus, and some farm animals. When visiting your neighbors or friends on Christmas Day, it’s important to praise their Christmas trees. After entering the house, the first thing you have to notice is their tree and…say something about it! Also, remember that when giving Christmas gifts to Germans, what matters is their usefulness and familiarity. Handmade gifts are a good idea, and don’t forget to say while presenting it – Frohe Weihnachten (Merry Christmas)!!! #travel a
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May 2024
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