Christmas in Germany by Barbara Doran-Rogel
Christmas in Germany is rich in tradition. As nature’s colours fade in November and the skies turn grey, it’s time for the Light Fest. The countdown begins. This is far removed from the cries of the Temples of Glitter. It’s more about quiet contemplation and using what nature provides. There are so many forests scattered throughout Germany. The therapeutic value of taking a walk in nature is well known. You’ll be in awe as you look with an artist’s eye at the beauty of nature, even in winter. You might encounter a shy deer and its family on your forest walk. If you’re quiet you’ll hear a cacophony of sounds, perhaps the rustling of feathers. And if you look up, you might spot an owl on a branch staring at you with unblinking eyes. Nature’s jewellery is abundant, even in winter. You’ll find berries, acorns missing their caps, pine cones, holly, ivy and even some mistletoe, if you’re lucky. Check to make sure that what you take isn’t under protection. The other day I found some exquisite little pink flowered-branches. I didn’t take them because they’d have died within hours and they looked so gorgeous where they were. You can use nature’s jewellery to decorate your home and it won’t cost you a penny. Once back home, the scent of simmering cinnamon and orange will add to the Christmas ambiance. Light a candle and put on your favourite Christmas music and you’ll be in the swing of it. Grey skies no longer have power over your moods. It’s the season for light and sparkly things and children’s eyes grow wide with glee as the anticipation rises. In Germany, people begin preparing their
Adventskranz (wreath) at the end of November. If you decide to follow this tradition, you can let your imagination guide you. Whereas some people prefer the traditional red and green colour scheme, anything goes. The Adventskranz is usually a focal point on the table. In the days approaching Christmas, people enjoy the ritual of lighting the candles and sitting together to drink coffee and try the Weihnactsgebäck (Christmas cookies). The 6th December sees most families celebrating St. Nikolaus Tag. Children leave their shoes outside the door and they are miraculously filled with sweets or a gift the next morning. The story goes that a poor man who had three daughters and no money to pay for their wedding was desperate. St. Nikolaus heard of his plight and dropped some gold coins down his chimney. They fell into the girls’ boots, which were laid out to dry. Hence the boots or stockings. St. Nikolaus or s not to be confused with Santa Claus or Father Christmas (der Weihnachtsman), who first appeared on the scene in his current form as a cheerful, chubby man with red coat, rosy cheeks and white beard in the 1920’s Coca Cola ads. The original St. Nikolaus was reported to have been the Bishop of Myra, who lived in former Asia Minor, now Turkey. He was renowned for his good deeds and for his kindness to all people, particularly children. In some rural areas, St. Nikolaus comes to schools, asking the children if they’ve been good or bad. He sometimes comes with
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