St. Nikolaus

Wiehnacht (Christmas) is in the air! Everyone in Germany is in the holiday spirit. The shops are bursting with Christmas specials and many of the window displays depict St. Nick or Christ’s birth. The Weihnachtsmarkte are open and people come from kilometers around to buy handmade Christmas ornaments and Christmas gifts. The Weihnachtsmarkte are also places of social gathering as many Germans stand at food stands, drinking warm drinks and eating while talking with friends. Even though there is snow on the ground and it is almost too cold to stand still without freezing, this doesn’t stop them from socializing. This weekend I went to the Weihnachtsmarkt in Bad Wimpfen.  It was really cold and I thought my toes would freeze off…even though I was wearing winter boots and 3 pairs of socks! However, it was lots of fun to see all the booths that were decorated for Christmas, selling homemade crafts or food. The city was especially beautiful with the snow on the ground and covering the buildings. It definitely felt like Christmas. I bought some handmade authentic German decorations and the king Nutcracker. I have always wanted a Nutcracker!

 

On December 6, the children in Germany celebrated St. Nikolaus Day, which is a holiday in remembrance of St. Nikolaus of Myra who died in 346. On the night of Dec. 5 the children put one of their boots outside in hopes that St. Nick will come and leave Geschenke (presents). In the morning they find fruit and candy in their boot! I even found some treats in my boot!!  This tradition also comes from St. Nikolaus who often left secret gifts in people’s shoes.  Some Germans also hold to the tradition that naughty children don’t receive any presents, or they may find coal or a switch in the boot. I think St. Nikolaus Day is a fun tradition!!