The patron of all kids The story of St. Nicholas, the bishop of Myra in Minor Asia, who died on December 6th, 343, dates back to the 4th century. He is said to appear in the company of Knecht Ruprecht, "Knecht" meaning "servant". Historically, Ruprecht was a dark and sinister figure wearing a tattered robe with a big sack on his back in which, as … [Read more...]
St. Barbara’s Day in Germany
Barbara, the daughter of the rich merchant Dioscuros, grew up in Nikomedia (today's Izmet, Turkey). In order to retain her innocence, Barbara's father locked her up during his absence, in a tower with only two windows. When Dioscuros returned from his journey, he found the third window in the tower. Barbara was baptized by a priest disguised as a … [Read more...]
St. Andreas’ Day
November 30 is dedicated in the evangelical, catholic and orthodox church to the Saint Andreas the Apostle, the brother of Saint Peter. He was one of 12 Apostles accompanying Jesus. He was a witness of the Ascension Day. He was martyred under the Emperor Nero and is remembered on November 30, traditionally considered the date of his martyrdom in 60 … [Read more...]
Christmas Stories
The beauty of Christmas time Winter time in Germany abounds in beautiful pre-Christmas, Christmas, and post-Christmas traditions. It is in December and January that so many Saints are celebrated -- more than during the rest of the year taken together! Pre-Christmas time begins with St. Martin's Day on November 11, then goes on to St. … [Read more...]
Fasching – Carnival in Germany
Fasching is the Roman Catholic Shrovetide carnival as celebrated in German-speaking countries. There are many regional differences concerning the name, duration, and activities of the carnival. It is known as Fasching in Bavaria and Austria, Fosnat in Franconia, Fasnet in Swabia, Fastnacht in Mainz and its environs, and Karneval in Cologne and the … [Read more...]
Autumn in Germany
German culture is rich in traditions all the year round. Each season features main events in German daily life, cultural background and holidays which keep traditions of Germans for centuries. Autumn is featured by numerous holidays, mostly devoted to harvesting and German music heritage. Harvesting is the most significant event in autumn in … [Read more...]
How did Halloween Come to Germany
How Did Halloween Come to Germany? In the mid-1990s, few in Germany had ever heard of Halloween, and even fewer celebrated it. Now, it's a €150 million a year industry. The holiday's success can be traced to a single marketing genius. Most in Germany have never heard of Dieter Tschorn. And even fewer will be particularly concerned by the … [Read more...]
Allerheiligentag (All Saints’ Day) in Germany
Halloween's Origins and Traditions of Celebration in Germany Halloween is when all demons and witches are out for the night hunting, and when there are pumpkins glaring out of the windows, and when it's better to give a treat instead of being tricked... Halloween is celebrated each year on October 31. It had its beginnings in an ancient, … [Read more...]
How to Celebrate Easter Like a German
Easter in Germany is more than a religious holiday—it is a vibrant mix of ancient traditions, springtime celebrations, and festive gatherings. While other countries focus mainly on the Easter Bunny and chocolate eggs, Germans embrace a rich heritage of Easter customs that have been passed down for generations. From beautifully decorated Easter … [Read more...]
The Grimms’ Brothers Fairy Tales: Timeless Magic in Storytelling
From enchanting princesses asleep in faraway castles to mischievous creatures causing mayhem, the fairy tales penned by the Grimms' Brothers have cast a spell over generations. Their cultural legacy is undeniably significant, making them synonymous with the very essence of storytelling. If you've ever been curious about the timeless magic … [Read more...]