As November draws to a close and the air turns crisp, I find myself returning to one of my favorite rituals—gathering fresh evergreen branches and crafting an Advent wreath, or Adventskranz, just as we did back home in Bavaria. I carefully bind the greens together, nestle four candles—usually red or white—into the circle, and place it in a spot where it can quietly anchor the … Continue reading The History and Meaning of the Adventskranz
A few years ago, I had the privilege of witnessing the impressive event of raising the Maibaum,(Maypole) in a stunning public square. The Maibaum at Florianiplatz in Bad Reichenhall has been a tradition since the 16th century. This custom represents fertility, marks the end of winter, and heralds the arrival of Spring. In the lively town Bad Reichehall, the festival featured traditional folk dances and … Continue reading The tradition of the Maibaum (Maypole)
The 14th of February (Valentines Day) is considered the day of love and lovers in Germany and other countries. But why is that? You can read all about the meaning of Valentine’s Day, its history and customs here Every year on February 14 is Valentine’s Day. In Germany, and many other countries around the world, this date is used to give flowers and chocolates, to … Continue reading Valentines Day, the Founder and it’s Origin
One crisp January morning in Germany, I opened my door when I heard the sound of soft singing. I saw three children dressed in robes and golden paper crowns, they were the Sternsinger—the “Star Singers.” They were disguised as the Three Wise Men and brought with them a centuries old tradition. This tradition still warms hearts across the country at Epiphany. It was Three Kings … Continue reading Three Kings Day: The Meaning of Sternsingers in Germany
The Almabtrieb is a picturesque and culturally rich tradition in the Alpine regions of southern Europe. Think of Austria, Switzerland, Germany, Liechtenstein, and northern Italy. It’s not just a cattle drive; it’s a celebration of rural life, seasonal rhythms, and community spirit. It refers to a cattle drive. This event brings the cow herd down from the mountain pastures every end of September. I was … Continue reading Almabtrieb: A Celebration of Alpine Traditions
Martin’s Day, often simply called Saint Martin, is the commemoration of Saint Martin of Tours. The Christian holiday is celebrated on November 11 every year.
Children honoring St. Martin by walking through the streets with colorful handcrafted illuminating Lanterns, singing songs like “Laterne, Laterne, Sonne Mond und Sterne” or “Ich geh mit meiner Laterne” Continue reading St. Martin, a Saint that children love and adore
You can find the Lamb cake customarily on an Easter breakfast table in Germany An Easter lamb made from a cake batter has become a beloved tradition for many families in Germany. Instead of a large cake, you can bake little Easter lambs and Easter bunnies, which I personally like much better. This way everyone gets their own mini cake. You can flavor the Easter … Continue reading German Easter Lamb cake or Osterlamm
Haslach, a town in the Black Forest with 7000 people celebrates end of February the “Storchentag” (Day of the Stork). Children walk through town with white bags that is led by the “Storchenvater” the father of the stork. They call “Heraus, Heraus!” (get out). Customarily, the towns people throw sweets, fruits and pretzels out of their windows. Continue reading “Storchentag” in the Black Forest
