German Weihnachten (Christmas)

By: Skyler Carreau

Christmas Eve

• Christmas Eve or Heiligabend is the night before Christmas. St. Nicholas Eve. This happens on Dec, 6 an all of the children leave one shoe out for St. Nicholas to either leave candy if they are good or twigs if they are bad.

The Christmas Tree

• The tranquil splendor of Christmas tree lights is an essential aspect of the festival for both the individual and the population as a whole. It is the symbol of Christmas for all Germans

The Winter Season

• December 21st, supposedly the shortest day (longest night) of the year, is dubbed St. Thomas Day. This is the beginning of WINTER.

What happens to the Naughty

• In parts of the Sauerland, whoever wakes up late or arrives late to work on that day is issued the title "Thomas Donkey." They are given a cardboard donkey and are the subject of numerous jokes throughout the day. But this gentle abuse ends deliciously with round, iced currant buns called "Thomasplitzchen."

THE FEAST

• Many Germans cook special meals such as :Lebkuchen (Spice Bars) Reisbrei (Rice Porridge). They cook these meals mainly on Christmas day and the Christmas dinner.

Egg White Icing

Bibliography

• http://www.californiamall.com/holidaytraditions/traditions-germany.htmsaws