Christmas is one of the most important and popular festivals in Germany. Traditionally celebrated on December 24th, it is a Christian festival that celebrates the birth of Jesus Christ. However, it also has many non-religious aspects and is celebrated by people of all faiths.

The Christmas season in Germany usually begins in late November or early December, when Advent begins. Advent wreaths are hung in many houses and public places. They are round wreaths made of fir branches decorated with four candles. On each of the four Sundays of Advent, a candle is lit to symbolize the anticipation of Christmas.

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Another popular tradition in Germany is the Advent calendar. It's a kind of countdown to Christmas Eve, where every day in December children open a door and receive a little surprise.

On Christmas Eve, December 24th, most shops and businesses are closed. It is customary to spend the day with family. Many people attend a church service to celebrate the birth of Jesus Christ.

An important part of Christmas in Germany is the Christmas tree. Most families place a decorated tree in their living room. The tree is decorated with lights, Christmas tree decorations and tinsel. Presents are placed at the foot of the tree and may not be opened until Christmas Eve.

Another highlight of Christmas is the festive food. Traditional dishes vary depending on the region, but popular dishes include roast goose, duck or sausages with potato salad. Afterwards there are often Christmas cookies such as gingerbread, stollen and cookies.

After the meal, family members come together and exchange gifts. It is customary for everyone to prepare a gift for everyone. The gifts are usually opened one at a time while people sit together and enjoy the gifts.

Christmas in Germany also has some regional peculiarities. For example, in some regions there is the custom of the "Christ Child" or "Santa Claus" who brings the gifts. In other regions, St. Nicholas Day is celebrated on December 6th, when St. Nicholas distributes sweets and small gifts to good children.

In the days after Christmas, especially on December 25th and 26th, many people visit relatives and friends or enjoy the days off in other ways. It is also a time to visit Christmas markets where you can drink mulled wine, buy Christmas decorations and enjoy the festive atmosphere.

Overall, Christmas in Germany is a time of joy, togetherness and traditions. It is a festive time to celebrate the birth of Jesus Christ and feel the love and warmth of family. The atmosphere is usually cozy and contemplative, with candlelight, Christmas music and the scent of cinnamon and spices in the air.

There are also cultural events and customs associated with Christmas in Germany. Many cities host Christmas markets where you can buy handmade gifts, Christmas decorations, traditional food and drinks. Mulled wine, a spiced hot wine, is particularly popular and contributes to the festive atmosphere.

Another highlight is singing Christmas carols. Many communities hold Christmas services during which traditional and well-known Christmas carols are sung. It is also common for children to go from house to house singing Christmas carols to receive sweets or small gifts. This custom is called “star singing”.

Christmas in Germany is a time when people also think about those who are less fortunate. Many people get involved in social projects or donate to charities to help others and promote solidarity and charity.

In the days after Christmas, the festive period ends with New Year's Eve, when the New Year is ushered in. It is customary to gather with friends and family to say goodbye to the old year and welcome the new year with fireworks, champagne and good wishes.

Christmas in Germany is a time of traditions, gatherings and joy. It is a time to pause, calm down and enjoy the company of loved ones. No matter whether religious or not, Christmas is an important festival that people in Germanyhland celebrate in a special way every year.