Holidays & Seasons
Holidays, be they national commemorations or family-centered fests, have their own unique traditions that vary from country to country and even region to region. In Germany, for example, presents are shared on Christmas Eve in the glow of live candles on the tree. And October 3 is an occasion for fireworks.
Christmas in Germany is a very traditional, family celebration. A number of beloved German traditions have become staples around the world, like Christmas markets, Advent calendars, and popular carols.
Christmas
If you visit a town in Germany’s Rhineland or in the southwestern region during the supposedly dark days of winter you’re likely to find the whole place thrown topsy-turvy. That's because the period before Ash Wednesday is known as Carnival or the fifth season.
Carnival
The Easter season is a time when all customs seem to symbolize renewal, life and the beginning of spring. Colorful eggs, special meals, huge bonfires and, of course, church services are some of the customs that mark this special time of year.
Easter
The Day of German Unity marks the day in 1990 on which the German Democratic Republic (East) acceded to the Federal Republic of Germany. In 2009, Germany is also celebrating the 60th anniversary of the Basic Law and the 20th anniversary of the fall of the Berlin Wall.
Video: Day of German Unity
![[Logo Auswärtiges Amt]](/images/logo.gif){kind=logo}
