Christmas in Lutherland
Traditions and Christmas markets
Martin Luther and German Christmas traditions
Yes, the reformer had a hand in this too. After all, he was a family man. He probably didn't invent the Christmas tree, but here are some traditions that can be traced back to Luther.
#1 The Christ Child
Curly-haired and angelic in a white dress, the Christ Child appears at Christmas and brings presents. At least this is an idea that goes back to Martin Luther. He wanted to abolish the veneration of saints and so he created a Protestant alternative. It was so successful that the Christ Child has now also found its way into Catholic households. The man in the red coat only came into play later and originated in America.
#2 Singing at Christmas
Christmas carols were mainly sung in churches in the past, and in Latin. Martin Luther felt this was a deficiency that needed to be remedied. And so,Vom Himme he tried his hand at creating songs. His best-known song is probably "Vom Himmels hoch, da komm ich her", which is a classic today. Johann Sebastian Bach later took it up in his Christmas Oratorio.
#3 The family celebration
Until the Reformation, it was customary to celebrate Christmas mainly in the churches. Luther introduced the tradition of having a family celebration at home, with a special meal, presents and a nativity play. The preparations for the meal and the shopping were intended to strengthen the children's anticipation of Christ's birth.
Christmas markets in Lutherland
The Christmas markets in Lutherland are everything you would expect from traditional Christmas markets: atmospheric, romantic and bright. The picturesque backdrop is provided by old town scenery and castle courtyards. Traditional delicacies and festive concerts with brass bands or choirs on the market event stages ensure a cheerful atmosphere.
Most markets are easily accessible by train, so there's nothing to stop you from trying specialities such as mulled wine or Feuerzangenbowle. And since there are so many Christmas markets in Lutherland, here are a few tips for first-timers. Have fun!
Experience the magical Christmas enchantment in Saxony-Anhalt and let yourself be captivated by the festively decorated Christmas markets. Historic settings like the old town of Quedlinburg or Wernigerode, as well as the Light World in Magdeburg, create a special atmosphere.
Did you know that glass Christmas tree decorations originated in Thuringia? The glassmakers are at home in the Thuringian Forest, where manufactories still produce using historical models. The shiny ornaments are of course also available at the region's atmospheric Christmas markets. Erfurt's Christmas market in the picturesque setting of the old town is one of the most popular in Germany.
