Celebrating Advent... the German way!

You may heard of "Advent", or even celebrated it before, but did you know that in Germany, it's, like, super-popular?

Widely celebrated, Advent marks a time of preparation and reflection -- with special traditions passed down through generations.

And it's not only about counting down the days until Christmas, but also about savoring each moment leading up to the holiday.

The Advent Calendar... is German!

One of the most beloved traditions of Advent in Germany is the German Advent Calendar.

The first known Advent Calendar dates back to the 19th century, when German Lutherans would count down to Christmas by marking a chalk line on a door for each day in December.

As time passed, this tradition eventually evolved into today’s "modern" Advent calendars that could be filled with chocolates, treats, and other surprises like puzzles, Legos, and more... fun for kids and adults alike!

German Advent Calendars are often quite elaborately designed with little windows or doors that are opened daily from December 1st to Christmas Eve. Behind each window, you'll typically find chocolates, toys, or other small treats.

I fondly remember the excitement of opening each little flap in my childhood Advent calendars... it was so hard to wait for each new day!

Some families even make their own calendars... filling each pocket or box with personalized surprises. This wonderful tradition makes the lead-up to Christmas even more special. :)

Did you know that in the city of Gengenbach in Germany, each of the 24 windows of their historic town hall are illuminated with festive artwork or decorations to mark the 24-day December countdown to Christmas... it's a full-size, life-size Advent calendar!

Lighting up the Season: the Advent Wreath

The Advent wreath in Germany is another wonderful tradition.

This custom, which originated with German Lutherans in the 16th century, involves a wreath made of evergreen branches and four candles. Each Sunday of Advent, one candle is lit, symbolizing Hope, Peace, Joy, and Love.

Families have often gathered around their Advent Wreath each Sunday to sing carols, say prayers, or simply spend time together.

The act of lighting the candles serves as a gentle reminder of the spiritual significance of the season, helping to create a calming atmosphere amid the chaotic hustle and bustle of December.

Baking and Sharing!

Advent is also a time to indulge in seasonal baking... filling your kitchen with the sweet aroma of delicious Christmas treats such as Lebkuchen (gingerbread) and Stollen (a fruit-filled bread dusted with powdered sugar).

Baking these treats is often a family affair, where everyone can participate in mixing, decorating, and of course... taste-testing!

If you have German roots or simply love baking, Advent is a perfect time to try your hand at these traditional recipes.

Making Stollen, for example, connects you with centuries-old customs and flavors enjoyed by countless German families -- and sharing these treats with friends and neighbors also embodies the spirit of giving that is central to the Advent season.

Advent Sundays & Community Gatherings

Beyond celebrating the Advent customs and traditions at home, Advent in Germany is also celebrated by vibrant community events such as Christmas markets (Weihnachtsmärkte).

They spring up in town squares, offering handmade crafts, mulled wine (Glühwein), and traditional foods.

Kids enjoy rides, carousels, and more, while adults shop for gifts and everyone enjoys the delicious seasonal treats.

In some towns, you’ll even find Advent concerts and special church services, offering moments of reflection, introspection, and celebration!

Many Germans also participate in reinforcing the season's messages of compassion and kindness by supporting those in need with donations and acts of charity.

Visiting these Christmas markets, concerts and church services, and giving to those in need, is a beloved pastime during Advent, bringing people together to share in the joy of the season.

The Significance of Advent: Reflection & Belonging

At its heart, Advent in Germany is about creating moments of connection -- within families, communities, and personal faith -- centered on the anticipation of the coming of Jesus, celebrated at Christmas.

Advent invites us to slow down, reflect on what matters most, and prepare spiritually and emotionally for the celebration of Christ's birth.

For those with German loved ones or an interest in German culture, embracing these Advent traditions is a way to honor the past while making new memories.

By bringing these traditions into your home, you become part of a living history, sharing in the experiences of countless others who have celebrated this special season.

So light a candle, open a door on your Advent Calendar, and savor the rich traditions of Advent in Germany. It’s a journey of joy, togetherness, and anticipation that deepens the meaning of the Christmas season. :)

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Cheers,

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Hi, I'm Oma Gerhild! As a food writer and cookbook author, I'm always looking to find ways to pass on my German heritage using local ingredients. Quick and easy. That's my goal. Wunderbar food. That's the result.

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