Christmas in Germany: Traditions, Food & Customs
Germany is considered the birthplace of many beloved Christmas traditions including the Christmas tree (Tannenbaum), Advent calendars, and Christmas markets (Weihnachtsmärkte). The holiday season begins with Advent in late November and builds to the main celebration on Christmas Eve.
Last updated: February 2026
Germany is considered the birthplace of many beloved Christmas traditions including the Christmas tree (Tannenbaum), Advent calendars, and Christmas markets (Weihnachtsmärkte). The holiday season begins with Advent in late November and builds to the main celebration on Christmas Eve.
Christmas Traditions in Germany
Weihnachtsmärkte (Christmas Markets)
Germany is famous for its Christmas markets, with over 2,500 markets held across the country each year. The Nuremberg Christkindlesmarkt and Dresden Striezelmarkt are among the oldest and most visited in the world.
Advent Calendar
The tradition of Advent calendars originated in 19th-century Germany. Families count down the 24 days before Christmas by opening a small door each day to reveal a treat, image, or small gift.
Christmas Eve Gift-Giving
In Germany, the main celebration and gift exchange happens on Heiligabend (Christmas Eve) rather than Christmas morning. Families gather for dinner and then open presents together.
St. Nicholas Day
On December 6th, children leave their shoes outside the door. St. Nicholas fills them with sweets, fruits, and small gifts for well-behaved children, while his companion Knecht Ruprecht leaves coal for naughty ones.
Traditional Christmas Food in Germany
Stollen
A traditional fruit bread dusted with powdered sugar, filled with dried fruits, nuts, and marzipan. Dresden Stollen is the most famous variety.
Lebkuchen
German gingerbread cookies that are a Christmas market staple, often shaped into hearts and decorated with icing.
Kartoffelsalat und Würstchen
Potato salad and sausages are the traditional Christmas Eve dinner in many German households — a simple meal before the grand Christmas Day feast.
Unique Christmas Customs
- St. Nicholas Day on December 6th with shoes left outside the door
- Hiding a pickle ornament in the Christmas tree — the finder gets an extra gift
- Lighting candles on a real Adventskranz (Advent wreath) each of the four Sundays before Christmas
- Leaving letters on the windowsill for the Christkind
Explore more Christmas traditions
Who Brings Gifts in Germany?
In Germany, gifts are traditionally brought by Christkind (Christ Child) or Weihnachtsmann (Christmas Man). This unique tradition reflects centuries of cultural and religious heritage.
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