Why Advent Is Germany's Most Beloved Season
Long before Christmas Day arrives, Germany comes alive with candles, carols, and centuries-old customs. The four weeks of Advent — from the fourth Sunday before Christmas until December 24th — are arguably the most culturally rich period in the German calendar. More than mere preparation for Christmas, Advent is a season unto itself, steeped in folk tradition, family ritual, and community spirit.
The Advent Wreath: Kranz and Candlelight
The Adventskranz (Advent wreath) is the centrepiece of the season. Traditionally crafted from fir branches and adorned with four candles, one candle is lit on each Sunday of Advent. The custom is thought to have originated in Hamburg in the 19th century with theologian Johann Hinrich Wichern, who used a wooden ring with candles to help children count down to Christmas.
Today, Advent wreaths hang in homes, churches, schools, and public spaces across Germany. The scent of pine and the warm glow of candlelight against the winter darkness remain among the most evocative symbols of the season.
Advent Calendars: More Than Chocolate Windows
The Adventskalender originated in Germany in the early 20th century, with the first printed commercial calendar appearing around 1908. Behind each of 24 doors or windows lies a small surprise — traditionally a picture, later chocolate, and today anything from toys to beauty products.
Many German families still make handmade calendars, filling small cloth bags or paper parcels hung on a string. It remains one of the most cherished customs for children and adults alike.
Christkindlmarkt: The Christmas Market Tradition
Germany's Weihnachtsmärkte (Christmas markets) draw visitors from across the world, but for locals they are a deeply communal tradition. The most famous — Nuremberg's Christkindlesmarkt — has roots stretching back to the 16th century.
- Glühwein — spiced, mulled red wine served in ceramic mugs
- Lebkuchen — spiced gingerbread in elaborate shapes
- Gebrannte Mandeln — roasted sugared almonds
- Holzspielzeug — hand-carved wooden toys from the Erzgebirge region
Each region has its own variation: Dresden is famous for its Striezelmarkt, while Cologne's market surrounds the magnificent cathedral.
St. Nicholas Day: December 6th
Many people outside Germany are surprised to learn that Nikolaustag on December 6th is a separate celebration from Christmas. Children polish and leave their boots outside the door on the night of the 5th. St. Nicholas — a kindly, bishop-robed figure quite distinct from the modern Santa Claus — fills them with sweets, nuts, and small gifts.
In some regions, Nikolaus is accompanied by Knecht Ruprecht or the fearsome Krampus, a horned figure said to punish naughty children — a tradition that speaks to the older, more complex roots of these midwinter customs.
The Advent Season in Church and Community
Beyond the commercial and domestic, Advent retains strong spiritual and communal dimensions in Germany. Many parishes hold special Adventsandachten (Advent devotions), choir concerts, and candlelit services. Neighbourhood Adventssingen — community carol-singing evenings — bring people together in village squares and church halls throughout the four weeks.
How to Experience Advent the German Way
- Make or buy an Adventskranz and light a candle each Sunday
- Visit a local Weihnachtsmarkt on a weekday evening to avoid crowds
- Bake traditional Plätzchen (Christmas cookies) such as Zimtsterne or Vanillekipferl
- Attend an Adventskonzert at a local church
- Fill an Adventskalender for someone you love
Whether you are German by birth, heritage, or simply admiration, the Advent season offers one of the most meaningful windows into the soul of German cultural life.