If you’ve ever wondered how to celebrate Christmas like an average German, this guide is for you. Inspired by the charming video following Michael Müller, our everyday German, we’ll walk you through the essential elements of a traditional German Christmas, from December 24th’s family-focused “Heiligabend” to the quirky gift-giving customs.
What makes German Christmas traditions so fascinating is how they’re rooted in simple family moments rather than grand displays. Germans aren’t just shopping and decorating—they’re following practices that have stayed remarkably consistent over the years.
Real trees, homemade treats like Stollen and Plätzchen, and a unique split between a modest Christmas Eve dinner and a larger feast on the 25th, all come together to create a season that’s both festive and understated.
In this article, I’ll take you step-by-step through these traditions, with insights from the video to give you a real taste of German holiday spirit. Whether you’re curious or actually planning to celebrate a German-style Christmas, this guide will bring you closer to understanding how Germans keep it cozy, communal, and just a little bit “super average.”
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The video below is a delightful exploration of Christmas traditions in Germany, following the story of Michael Müller, your quintessential German citizen, as he celebrates the holidays with his family.
Through Michael’s eyes, you get a heartwarming and often humorous look at what Christmas means to Germans and how it differs from other cultures. Christmas Eve, or “Heiligabend,” is the focal point of celebration, packed with family gatherings, traditional foods, and gift-giving practices that will make you smile.
From the preference for real Christmas trees to the abundance of homemade treats like Stollen and gingerbread, you’ll see why these customs have been cherished over the years.
Beyond the holiday’s material aspects, the video dives into what truly makes Christmas special for Germans: family, a sense of togetherness, and a bit of holiday honesty (often softened to avoid hurt feelings!).
You’ll enjoy watching how German families balance between tradition and modern trends, from decorating with artificial trees to giving kids the job of performing a song or poem before getting their gifts.
There’s also a surprising twist to dinner traditions, with a humble meal on Christmas Eve leading to a grander feast on the 25th, contrasting with many other countries’ big Christmas Eve dinners.
If you’re curious about unique holiday traditions or want a glimpse into how Germans approach the season with their own style and charm, this video is a must-watch. Not only does it provide a funny and relatable take on family dynamics and holiday pressures, but it also reminds you of the importance of harmony, generosity, and love—the universal themes that make Christmas special everywhere.
Plus, you might end up wondering if Michael’s still single and, like Christmas, searching for a little extra joy in his life. So, if you’re looking for a cozy, cultural dive into Christmas the German way, this video is sure to entertain and inspire.
The Average German Christmas: Food, Gifts & Arguring by DW Euromaxx
Here’s a summary:
- Introduces “Michael Müller,” an average German, and explores typical German Christmas traditions.
- Christmas Eve (“Heiligabend”) on December 24 is the main celebration day, not a public holiday, but 80% of Germans do not work.
- Around 81% of Germans look forward to Christmas, with nearly half beginning their shopping in November.
- Michael joins his family at his sister Steffi’s house; 81% of Germans, regardless of religion, celebrate Christmas.
- Decorations include real Christmas trees in 25 million homes, though artificial trees are rising in popularity.
- Early afternoon on Christmas Eeve includes coffee and sweets like Stollen, Plätzchen, Marzipan, and Lebkuchen.
- Honesty is valued, though Michael refrains from commenting on Steffi’s dry Plätzchen for Christmas’ sake.
- Presents are given before dinner on Christmas Eve, and kids may perform songs or poems to “earn” their gifts.
- Santa Claus (often a family member) delivers gifts; average spending is around 507 euros.
- Christmas Eve dinner is humble, commonly potato salad and sausages, with a grander meal on December 25.
- Harmony is highly valued, though only 1 in 3 Germans feel they can fully relax during the season.
- Despite holiday stress, the season is seen as a time of love, and the video ends with hints that Michael might be seeking love himself (find out more about Michael’s quest for love in this video here)
Want to learn more about German culture? Find our guide to Christmas food and drink in Germany here and Christmas traditions here. You can also find all our guides to German Christmas here and culture here.
