Christmas in Germany (Weihnachten) is steeped in centuries of tradition, and at Cleveland Maennerchor, we're proud to keep these customs alive. Here's how we celebrate the season with authentic German traditions.
Advent Season
The Christmas season officially begins four Sundays before Christmas with Advent. We light candles on our Advent wreath (Adventskranz) each Sunday leading up to Christmas. Our hall is decorated with traditional evergreen wreaths and candles.
St. Nicholas Day (December 6)
German children celebrate St. Nicholas Day (Nikolaustag) on December 6. Children leave their shoes out overnight, and St. Nicholas fills them with treats - if they've been good! We hold a special St. Nicholas event for our members' children.
Christmas Markets
German Christmas markets (Weihnachtsmärkte) are famous worldwide. While we can't recreate a full market, our December events feature traditional market favorites like Glühwein (mulled wine), roasted almonds, and handmade ornaments.
Christmas Eve (Heiliger Abend)
In Germany, the main celebration happens on Christmas Eve, December 24. Families attend church, exchange gifts, and enjoy a special dinner. Our Christmas Eve service includes traditional German carols and a reading of the Christmas story in German.
Traditional Foods
German Christmas treats include:
- Lebkuchen (gingerbread cookies)
- Stollen (fruit bread with marzipan)
- Spekulatius (spiced cookies)
- Roasted chestnuts
- Marzipan candies
Christmas Carols
Our Christmas concert features beloved German carols like "Stille Nacht" (Silent Night), "O Tannenbaum" (O Christmas Tree), and "Ihr Kinderlein Kommet" (O Come Little Children). These songs connect us to centuries of German Christmas tradition.
Join Us This Season
Whether you have German heritage or simply love Christmas traditions, you're welcome to celebrate with us. Check our events calendar for our full schedule of Christmas activities.
Frohe Weihnachten! (Merry Christmas!)