Christmas History in Germany

Christmas in Germany is called "Weihnachten" today. The holiday is similar to those of other predominantly Christian nations but has evolved over several hundred years.

Significance

Before Christianity, the Germanic people celebrated Yule, a pagan festival held in midwinter. Yule was a time to drink and celebrate fertility and the harvest.

Time Frame

With the Christianization of Germany in the early Middle Ages, the date of Yule was fixed as Dec. 25 to coincide with what was believed to be the birth date of Christ.

Features

Christmas in Germany is celebrated on the evening of Dec. 24. After visiting church, the people put up the Christmas tree and the gifts that have been brought by "Kristkind" (Christ Child) are opened.

Geography

German emigration has spread German customs to other parts of the world. For example, the History Channel said that German immigrants brought the Christmas tree to Pennsylvania in the 1820s and to England in 1840 with the marriage of Queen Victoria to German Prince Albert.

Effects

Outside culture has also affected German traditions. For example, "Weihnactsmann," the German word for the more-commercial American version of Santa Claus, has replaced the traditional "Kristkind" in some areas. This has lead to "Ban Santa" campaigns in some parts of Germany.

References

• The History Channel
• Historica Germania
• Deutsche Welle, "Targeting Santa" Kyle James Dec 20, 2004

Resources

• The German Way