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
The Reindling cake, reminiscent of the Guglhupf, is a classic Bundt cake from Kärnten, Austria. This delightful treat is enjoyed during special celebrations such as Easter, Christmas, and birthdays. Traditionally baked in a “Rein” (a round cast-iron pot), it can also be prepared using a Bundt pan. The exact origins of the Carinthian Reindling are unclear, but there is evidence of its existence for centuries. … Continue reading Carinthian Reindling, an Austrian Bundt Cake
An old Bavarian custom is the Pentecost procession in Bad Kötzting. It is one of the largest Equestrian Processions in Europe and goes back to a vow from 1412. The festivities this year were on May 19, 2024, which is the Pentecost Sunday in Germany. As the legend goes, not far from Bad Kötzting, a man was dying and asked for the last sacraments. However, … Continue reading An Equestrian Procession (Pfingstritt) in Bavaria
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
The Watzmann mountain is not only Berchtesgaden’s landmark, it is also shrouded in famous legends and myths. Even today, the peaks of the massif are referred to as a family The Watzmann itself, with its 2713 meters of the middle peak, highest inner-German peak, as well as the Kleine (small) Watzmann known as the Watzmannfrau, and its 2307 meter frame with the smaller peaks, the … Continue reading The Berchtesgaden Watzmann Legend
