Historic Traditions and Customs

There is a strong sense of continuity in Germany, and many of the traditions still followed today, from Passion Plays and May Day to Midsummer Madness and Garden Gnomes can be traced back centuries.

Groundhog Day, Hedgehogs and Candlemas star
Groundhog Day, a million dollar industry with Punxsutawney Phil the "forecasting" groundhog and his friends, its origins a mixture of ancient European and German "Hedgehog" folklore, "Candlemas" a Christian festival, the weather, and pagan traditions surrounding February 2.

Lucky Chimney Sweeps, Germany's Schornsteinfeger star
Tradition and superstition surround Chimney Sweeps in Europe, and for Germany the traditions of "Lucky" Schornsteinfeger, in black gold buttoned suit and top hat, are rooted far in the past. In "real life", crafted or chocolate, they are a favorite "Good Luck" symbol.

Oberammergau Passion Play star
The wind of change has blown through the Bavarian village of Oberammergau’s centuries old and unique Passion Play, although Jesus’ entrance to Jerusalem, his crucifixion and resurrection remain the focal points.

Schult?ten and the First Day of School star
First day of school is a big celebration for first graders in Germany. Accompanied by the whole family for welcoming speeches, singing and photo calls, Schultüte/School Cone held close, it's time for their new "Lebensphase" to begin. Link to instructions to make your own Schultüte.

Schultueten and the First Day of School star
The first day of school is a milestone in the lives of German first graders. Parents and grandparents accompany the new pupil to school where, after welcoming speeches, songs, "photo calls", and "Schultuete", School Cone, held tightly, it is time for school life to begin.

Summer Solstice and Midsummer Magic in Germany star
Most Summer Solstice and Midsummer Eve festivities in German speaking countries were mystic Pagan, and pre-Christian, festivals. Symbols for renewal, fertility and harvest. And fire still plays a major role in celebrating the triumph of sun, and light, over cold and darkness.

Walpurgisnacht, Maibaum and May Day in Germany star
May enters with some weird and wonderful traditions in many regions of Germany, and the fun and games begin with Walpurgisnacht, when "Witches" join the festivities late on April 30. "Tanz in den Mai", dancing the night away until maypoles and day-drinking welcome May and Spring.