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In December the main focus is on Christmas, and the Germans have many Christmas traditions to celebrate.

Christmas markets are a very big part of these traditions. Meet up with friends at these beautifully decorated markets where you can buy delicious food, glühwein, handmade items and Christmas cards. Some markets are themed, such as the middle-age market in Esslingen or the baroque one in Ludwigsburg. There are also Christmas market tours that you can do. 
To avoid crowds, it is best to go during the day, although you will miss out on the cosy nighttime atmosphere enhanced by the countless Christmas lights and decorations.

Christmas Day is usually a quiet day spent with family. Shops are closed as well as most restaurants.

After the quiet celebrations of Christmas Day, comes New Year’s Eve. Here it is celebrated with a bang – literally! Fireworks can be seen everywhere. Just take note that fireworks are legally sold between 28-30 December and you are only able to light them from 31 Dec through 1 Jan.

It is also a bit of a tradition to watch Dinner for One on New Year’s Eve, eat Raclette and wash it down with a good Riesling or Sekt

Plan your month

Season

Autumn / Winter.

The astronomical start of winter falls between December 20 and 23, determined by Earth’s position relative to the sun and marked by solar events such as solstices and equinoxes.

Meteorological winter, however, is based on climatic conditions and the annual temperature cycle. In most of the Northern Hemisphere, it is defined as the three coldest months—December, January, and February—with the season officially beginning on December 1.

Time Zone

During Central European Time (CET) in winter, Germany is one hour behind South Africa. This time difference remains until the last Sunday in March when daylight saving time (Summertime) begins.

Weather

December in Germany marks the onset of winter and brings some of the coldest weather of the year. Temperatures can vary significantly, ranging from well below freezing to occasional mild days above 10°C. The weather is notoriously unpredictable, with frequent rain, freezing rain, frost, and fog. Snowfall is more common in mountainous regions, while lower-lying areas may see only light snow or none at all. While many imagine a white Christmas, it’s rare to find widespread snow across Germany during December. 

Festivals

  • Most Christmas markets in Germany open at the end of November and stay lively until just before Christmas. On our Christmas markets page, you’ll find details on the festive foods to try, plus insider tips from fellow South Africans.
  • For an extra touch of magic, many cities also feature Christmas Gardens, a spectacular festival of holiday lights perfect for the season!

Christmas Markets

Visiting Christmas markets in Germany is a delightful way of celebrating the festive season. The heavy scent of sweets, fried sausage and warm wine welcome

Holidays

HolidayDateInformationStates
Public Holidays
1st Day of Christmas / 1. Weihnachtsfeiertag25 DecemberAll
2nd Day of Christmas / 2. Weihnachtsfeiertag26 DecemberAll
Observations
1. Advent01.12.2024All
Meteorological Start of Winter01 DecemberAll
Saint Nicholas Day / Nikolaus-tag06 DecemberSt Nicholas DayAll
2. Advent08.12.2024All
3. Advent15.12.2024All
Winter Solstice21 DecemberThe winter solstice, also known as midwinter, occurs when one of the Earth’s poles has its maximum tilt away from the Sun. It is the longest night (darkness) in the year.All
4. Advent22.12.2024All
Christmas Eve /Heiligabend24 DecemberAll
New Year’s Eve / Silvester31 DecemberNew Years in GermanyAll

Events listed on our website

Jeremy Loops Europe Tour 2025

11/02/2025 – 22/02/2025 @ 8:00 pm – 11:45 pm – With his dynamic and electrifying live performances and a modern blend of folk and pop,  South African artist Jeremy Loops has made a name for himself globally in recent years. Boasting over 300 million streams and having toured with major acts like Twenty-One Pilots and Milky Chance, his success speaks for itself. He’s also collaborated […]

Prime Circle – The World We Know Tour 2025

11/02/2025 – 20/02/2025 @ 12:00 am – Prime Circle – The world as we know Tour Tickets available on Eventim, and other Ticket platforms Disclaimer: The events listed on this website are for informational purposes only. We do not organize, host, or sell tickets for any of these events. We make every effort to ensure the accuracy of the event details at […]

Kevin Fraser in Frankfurt 15 Feb 2025

15/02/2025 @ 8:00 pm – Join South African comedian Kevin Fraser for his #Imagination2025 comedy tour, a galactic journey blending classic humour with futuristic satire and local flavour. In a star-lit world of wild imagination, Kevin hilariously tackles life’s everyday quirks, from African roots to global absurdities. With impersonations, sharp wit, and a sanctuary of laughter, this tour promises a […]

Afrikaans is lekker – Amsterdam May 2025

24/05/2025 @ 12:00 am – AFRIKAANSE POPSTER-VIERTAL BINNEKORT IN AMSTERDAM Kersfees kom vanjaar vroeg vir Nederlandse aanhangers van die Afrikaanse supersterre Ricus Nel, Brendan Peyper, Elandré en Liza Nel! Dié bekende viertal se Afrikaans is Lekker-konsert sal vir SLEGS EEN AAND op Saterdag 24 Mei 2025 by die Theater Amsterdam in Nederland te sien wees. Die GROOTSTE Afrikaanse Sokkie After […]

SA Connections: Monthly Virtual Meetup for South Africans in Germany

11/09/2025 @ 8:00 pm – 10:00 pm – Monthly Topic Suggestions: January: New Year in Germany Share resolutions, cultural differences in celebrating New Year’s, and tips for winter survival. February: Navigating German Bureaucracy Cover common challenges with registering, visas, and paperwork. Share success stories and solutions. March: Finding Community and Belonging Discuss how to connect with locals and build a support network in […]

SA Connections: Monthly Virtual Meetup for South Africans in Germany

11/12/2025 @ 8:00 pm – 10:00 pm – Monthly Topic Suggestions: January: New Year in Germany Share resolutions, cultural differences in celebrating New Year’s, and tips for winter survival. February: Navigating German Bureaucracy Cover common challenges with registering, visas, and paperwork. Share success stories and solutions. March: Finding Community and Belonging Discuss how to connect with locals and build a support network in […]

SA Connections: Monthly Virtual Meetup for South Africans in Germany

13/11/2025 @ 8:00 pm – 10:00 pm – Monthly Topic Suggestions: January: New Year in Germany Share resolutions, cultural differences in celebrating New Year’s, and tips for winter survival. February: Navigating German Bureaucracy Cover common challenges with registering, visas, and paperwork. Share success stories and solutions. March: Finding Community and Belonging Discuss how to connect with locals and build a support network in […]

SA Connections: Monthly Virtual Meetup for South Africans in Germany

09/10/2025 @ 8:00 pm – 10:00 pm – Monthly Topic Suggestions: January: New Year in Germany Share resolutions, cultural differences in celebrating New Year’s, and tips for winter survival. February: Navigating German Bureaucracy Cover common challenges with registering, visas, and paperwork. Share success stories and solutions. March: Finding Community and Belonging Discuss how to connect with locals and build a support network in […]

SA Connections: Monthly Virtual Meetup for South Africans in Germany

14/08/2025 @ 8:00 pm – 10:00 pm – Monthly Topic Suggestions: January: New Year in Germany Share resolutions, cultural differences in celebrating New Year’s, and tips for winter survival. February: Navigating German Bureaucracy Cover common challenges with registering, visas, and paperwork. Share success stories and solutions. March: Finding Community and Belonging Discuss how to connect with locals and build a support network in […]

SA Connections: Monthly Virtual Meetup for South Africans in Germany

10/07/2025 @ 8:00 pm – 10:00 pm – Monthly Topic Suggestions: January: New Year in Germany Share resolutions, cultural differences in celebrating New Year’s, and tips for winter survival. February: Navigating German Bureaucracy Cover common challenges with registering, visas, and paperwork. Share success stories and solutions. March: Finding Community and Belonging Discuss how to connect with locals and build a support network in […]

SA Connections: Monthly Virtual Meetup for South Africans in Germany

12/06/2025 @ 8:00 pm – 10:00 pm – Monthly Topic Suggestions: January: New Year in Germany Share resolutions, cultural differences in celebrating New Year’s, and tips for winter survival. February: Navigating German Bureaucracy Cover common challenges with registering, visas, and paperwork. Share success stories and solutions. March: Finding Community and Belonging Discuss how to connect with locals and build a support network in […]

SA Connections: Monthly Virtual Meetup for South Africans in Germany – May

08/05/2025 @ 8:00 pm – 10:00 pm – Monthly Topic Suggestions: May: Summer Fun in Germany Discuss festivals, outdoor activities, and traditions to look forward to. June: Managing Finances Tips on taxes, saving money, and understanding German banking. July: Raising Kids in Germany Parenting tips, navigating German schools, and bilingual education. August: Overcoming Homesickness Share coping strategies and ways to stay connected to […]

Foods and Drinks to try

01.

Glühwein

Warm up with a cup of hot mulled wine at Germany’s festive Christmas markets! For those who prefer a non-alcoholic option, try Kinderpunsch, a spiced, fruity drink that’s just as cosy and delicious.

02.

Feuerzangenbowle

Feuerzangenbowle is a classic German winter drink where a rum-soaked sugarloaf is ignited, allowing the caramelized sugar to melt and drip into mulled wine. This warm, festive drink is a beloved tradition during the holiday season, bringing both warmth and spectacle to gatherings.

03.

Stollen

For a true taste of tradition, try Dresden Stollen—the finest you can buy!
While it’s a bit pricier, the quality and rich flavours make it well worth it.

04.

Cookies

Indulge in some classic German holiday treats! Try Lebkuchen (gingerbread), Elisenlebkuchen (nutty gingerbread), Zimtsterne (cinnamon star cookies), Pfeffernüsse (iced gingerbread bites), Vanillekipferln (crescent-shaped vanilla cookies), or Springerle (anise-flavored hard cookies). Each one brings a unique taste of Germany’s festive season!

05.

Raclette

Get ready for the ultimate cheese fest! Melted to perfection, Raclette is a cosy winter favourite in Germany. Find out all about it on our Raclette page for tips, recipes, and more cheesy goodness! 🧀

Fruit and Veggies in Season

Holiday Greetings

December Seasonal
Ich wünsche euch allen einen wunderschönen geruhsamen 1.AdventI wish you all a wonderful peaceful 1st Advent
Frohe Weihnachten!Merry Christmas!
Gesegnete Weihnachten und ein glückliches neues Jahr!Merry Christmas and a happy new year!
Herzliche Weihnachtsgrüße!Merry Christmas!
Ein frohes Weihnachtsfest und alles Gute zum neuen Jahr!Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!
Alles Gute zum neuen Jahr!Happy new year!
Einen guten Rutsch ins neue Jahr!Happy New Year!
Zum neuen Jahr Gesundheit, Glück und viel Erfolg!Happy New Year! health, happiness and much success!

Sources

Related content

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