Forgotten German Christmas Traditions That Should Return

Germany is known for its magical Christmas traditions, from twinkling Weihnachtsmärkte (Christmas markets) to the scent of warm Glühwein (mulled wine). However, many once-beloved customs have faded over time. While Santa Claus and Christmas trees remain, other traditions—some even older than Christkindl—have been lost to history.

Germany has a long history of folk legends, festive rituals, and regional customs that shaped the holiday season. From forgotten Yuletide spirits to unusual gift-bringers, many of these traditions deserve a revival. This article explores the fascinating German Christmas customs that time nearly erased and why they should make a comeback.

Germany’s Christmas Traditions: A Look Back in Time

Christmas in Germany has always been more than just gifts and decorations. Pagan winter solstice celebrations influenced early Christmas customs, merging with Christian traditions over the centuries. Before modern Christmas icons like Santa Claus became popular, different regions in Germany had their own festive figures and rituals.

While some traditions, like the Advent calendar, have spread worldwide, others have been overshadowed by commercialized celebrations. Yet, these forgotten customs tell an important story of how Germans once celebrated the darkest time of the year with light, warmth, and superstition.

Forgotten German Christmas Traditions That Should Return

1. The Twelve Rauhnächte: The Ghostly Nights of Christmas

Between December 25 and January 6, Germany once observed the Rauhnächte (Rough Nights), a time filled with eerie superstitions and ancient folklore. People believed that during these twelve nights, the veil between the living and the dead was at its thinnest. Spirits roamed freely, and mysterious beings like the Wild Hunt, a spectral army led by Wotan (Odin), raced across the night sky.

To ward off evil spirits, families would burn incense in their homes and follow strict rules. No laundry was allowed to hang outside, as spirits might steal it, and fortune-telling was common to predict the coming year. Today, the Rauhnächte have faded, but their blend of mysticism and tradition makes them a perfect candidate for revival.

2. Knecht Ruprecht: Santa’s Dark Companion

Before modern Weihnachtsmann (Santa Claus) took over, German children knew that Christmas brought both rewards and punishment. Enter Knecht Ruprecht, a fearsome companion of St. Nicholas. Dressed in dark robes, carrying a switch, and sometimes appearing with chains or a sack, he visited children on December 6 (Nikolaustag).

Unlike Santa, who only brings gifts, Knecht Ruprecht had a more disciplinary role. He quizzed children on their prayers and punished the naughty ones. Though he was once a major part of Christmas in Germany, Knecht Ruprecht has been largely replaced by Santa’s gentler, gift-giving image. Yet, his folk origins and no-nonsense approach make him a fascinating character worth reintroducing.

3. Belsnickel: The Mischievous Gift-Bringer

In parts of southwestern Germany, Belsnickel was a Christmas figure known for his rough, disheveled appearance. Unlike St. Nicholas, he traveled alone, dressed in ragged clothing, and carried both a bag of treats and a bundle of sticks. He visited homes in early December, knocking on doors and testing children’s behavior.

Unlike modern Santa, who is always jolly, Belsnickel could be stern or playful, depending on how well children behaved. German immigrants brought him to Pennsylvania, USA, where he survives in Pennsylvania Dutch communities. With his unique mix of trickery and tradition, Belsnickel is a character who could add old-world charm to modern Christmas celebrations.

4. Christbaumloben: The Art of Christmas Tree Compliments

While Christmas trees remain central to German holiday traditions, the old custom of Christbaumloben (Christmas Tree Praising) has nearly disappeared. In Bavaria and Swabia, visitors would go from house to house during the holiday season, complimenting the beauty of each Christmas tree. The hosts, in return, would offer a small drink or treat as thanks.

This simple, community-driven tradition encouraged social gatherings and festive cheer. In a time when digital greetings often replace in-person visits, reviving Christbaumloben could bring back warm and personal Christmas connections.

5. The Yule Goat: A Forgotten Symbol of Strength and Festivity

Though often associated with Scandinavian traditions, the Yule Goat (Julbock) was once part of German Christmas celebrations. Before Christmas trees became widespread, people would craft straw goats and place them in their homes as symbols of fertility and protection.

Some regions even had costumed Yule Goats, played by young men who would travel door to door, singing and bringing good fortune. Today, the Yule Goat has faded in Germany but remains popular in Sweden and Finland. Given the modern appreciation for handmade decorations and sustainable traditions, it might be time to bring this forgotten symbol back.

Why These Traditions Should Return

Christmas traditions evolve, but reviving forgotten customs adds depth and meaning to the holiday season. These older traditions connect Germany’s past with the present, offering a glimpse into a time when Christmas was filled with folklore, superstition, and communal rituals.

Many modern Christmas celebrations focus on commercial aspects, but these traditions emphasize storytelling, community, and seasonal magic. Whether it is celebrating Rauhnächte with family stories, reintroducing Knecht Ruprecht as Santa’s strict companion, or bringing back Christbaumloben as a way to connect with neighbors, these customs deserve a second chance.