What are 5 fun facts about Christmas in Germany?

Five fun facts about Christmas in Germany include the tradition of celebrating on Christmas Eve (Heiligabend), the origin of the Christmas tree as a German tradition, the country’s famous Christmas markets, the custom of using Advent calendars and wreaths to count down the days, and the unique Krampus tradition. 

1. Christmas Eve is the main celebration 

• Unlike many cultures, the primary day for gift-giving and festivities in Germany is Christmas Eve, known as Heiliger Abend (Holy Night) on December 24th.
• Families gather to decorate the Christmas tree, share a festive meal, and exchange presents before going to midnight mass. 
• The following two days, December 25th and 26th, are public holidays usually spent with family.

2. The Christmas tree tradition started in Germany

• The practice of decorating a tree with evergreen branches during the winter solstice is a pre-Christian German tradition.
• The modern Christmas tree as a conifer, often fir or spruce, became a central part of celebrations across the world because of its German origins. 

3. Christmas markets are a major feature 

• Throughout December, German cities and towns host festive Christmas markets (Weihnachtsmärkte) filled with wooden stalls.
• These markets sell handcrafted gifts, ornaments, and traditional foods like Lebkuchen (gingerbread) and Glühwein (mulled wine). 

4. Advent is a significant lead-up to Christmas 

• German families use Advent wreaths with four candles and Advent calendars to count down the days to Christmas Eve.
• The Advent calendar tradition, which involves opening a door each day to reveal a small surprise, is a popular German custom. 

5. Krampus is a unique figure in some regions 

• In Southern Bavaria and Austria, a mythical, horned creature named Krampus accompanies St. Nicholas during the Christmas season.
• Krampus is believed to punish misbehaving children, and muscular men in demonic costumes sometimes parade through towns on Krampus Night, giving a frightening but fun alternative to the typical Santa figure. 

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