History of Christmas in Germany enlightens us on one of the most visible aspects of Christmas, the Christmas Tree. Though it is now a worldwide phenomenon, the earliest Christmas celebrations were without a Christmas tree. Christmas in Germany is an elaborate affair and the many customs and rituals are followed with enthusiasm. It is believed that Martin Luther first decked the Christmas tree with lights.
We learn from the history of Christmas in Germany, about the Advent wreaths that have originated from the German Lutherans. The wreath is made up of evergreens and has four candles of which the large white candle is lighted on twenty-fifth December, that is, the Christmas Day. Also Germany has given the world the Advent calendar.
Nuremberg has a Christmas market which is more than four hundred years old. The faithful comes to attend this market from different countries. It has a fountain, Schner Brunnen as it is called in Germany and Franenkirche (Our Lady's Church). The Church is 600 years old. The traditional Christmas market of Nuremberg starts from early December and continues till Christmas. All things related with Christmas like decorative items, candy cane, Christmas cards, poinsettias, mistletoe, holly and various symbols of Christianity are available. The market has withstood the test of time and continues to thrive.
History of Christmas in Germany will be incomplete if the tradition of St. Nicholas is not mentioned. The German children have their gifts from St. Nicholas on December sixth in shoes kept outside their bedroom door. Christmas dinner is a special affair and the Christmas Day and Christmas Eve is usually reserved for the family and friends. Learn more on Christmas Celebrations from Christmas Carnivals.
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