How is Christmas celebrated in Berlin?

During the Christmas season, the capital city sparkles and twinkles along with the stars in the sky. Cozy Christmas markets, festively decorated streets and squares, classical and Gospel concerts transform Berlin into a veritable Christmas capital.

How do they celebrate Christmas in Berlin?

During Christmas, people in Berlin decorate their front yards and tables with beautiful advent wreaths, give gifts to children that are said to be from Saint Nicholas, decorate the Christmas tree on 24th December, and make Stollen, a special fruit bread consisting of nuts, spices, candied fruits, and sugar.

Should I go to Berlin for Christmas?

Most people probably wouldn't consider visiting Berlin in the winter, considering how cold it can get in northern Europe. However, when you factor in the Christmas Market, the lack of crowds, and the better prices for the low season, it becomes a great option.

How is Christmas celebrated differently in Germany?

Unlike Christmas Day celebrations in England, the Germans know 25th December as 'Erster Feiertag', which means first celebration day. While the presents will have all been opened on Christmas Eve, the 25th is still a day where families gather, good food is eaten and people enjoy well-deserved time off work.

Is there a Winter Wonderland in Berlin?

The Winterwelt (Winter World) at Potsdamer Platz is a visitor magnet and a highlight among Berlin's winter attractions. Unlike traditional Christmas markets, the Winterwelt is also a sporting venue. A special highlight is the 12-metre high and 70-metre long winter slide.

What Is Christmas Like In Berlin? - Germany Made Simple

Is Winter Wonderland still free?

Winter Wonderland tickets

Entry to Winter Wonderland is free during off-peak times, but entry at peak times and access to some activities require a paid-for ticket. Visitors who spend an additional £25 per person on chargeable attractions, rides or games when booking their ticket are entitled to free admission.

Is Berlin cheap or expensive?

The short answer: Berlin is surprisingly affordable compared to other European capitals—but with caveats. While everyday living costs such as housing and dining can be budget-friendly, certain tourist areas and niche experiences might push your spending higher.

Is Christmas in Germany worth it?

Are Christmas markets in Germany worth it? Definitely! From twinkling lights to authentic German snacks, the experience is magical and totally worth the trip.

Do Germans open gifts on Christmas Eve?

Nowadays, Germans typically exchange gifts on Christmas Eve, but the Nikolaustag tradition continues. On the night of December 5, children and adults clean their shoes and place them outside their front door.

What do Germans call Christmas?

Weihnachten (German: [ˈvaɪnaxtn̩]) is the observance of what is commonly known in English as Christmas in the German-speaking countries such as Germany, Austria and Switzerland.

What to do in Berlin at Christmas?

Is 7 days in Berlin too much?

Having 7 days to visit Berlin can be considered a real luxury. It is possible that many people think that it is too much time, but if you want to see the German capital at your leisure and take advantage of some excursions, it is a perfect stay.

Is Berlin too cold in December?

December in Berlin is a winter month, with temperatures approximately ranging from 0°C to 4°C. The city is adorned with festive decorations, and the air is filled with the aroma of mulled wine and gingerbread, creating a magical atmosphere.

What is eaten on Christmas Day in Germany?

At the centre of a German Christmas evening spread you'll usually find a roasted goose, turkey or duck, traditionally served with lovely plump bread dumplings – the classic round ones, or one great big festive loaf-shaped one, known as a Serviettenknödel (pictured sliced, above), plus braised red cabbage or stewed kale ...

Does Berlin have a white Christmas?

Although there is no guarantee that it will snow, careful planning of your trip can give you high chances of experiencing a white Christmas in Berlin. The latter half of the month of December (say, after the middle of the month) is statistically more likely to bring snow than the first half of the month.

How to spend Christmas in Germany?

On Christmas Day, Germans traditionally partake in a traditional Christmas lunch, featuring poultry, braised red cabbage or stewed kale, and a good glass of wine. Germany is famous for its Christmas markets. Historic city centres light up with weihnachtsmärkte, including holiday lights and decorations.

How much does a meal cost in Berlin?

A sit-down meal at a casual eatery or a mid-range restaurant will cost around €12 to €25 per person. This includes places like traditional German beer halls that offer food service. Common dishes in this price range include things like schnitzel, käsespätzle, or a hearty plate of bratwurst with potatoes.

Do I need cash for Winter Wonderland?

You will need to get an entrance ticket for Hyde Park Winter Wonderland to enter the event. There are some sessions available for no cost, whereas others are either £5 or £7.50 per person. How can I pay for food and drink? Purchases can be made by cash or card.

How safe is Winter Wonderland?

The safety and comfort of all visitors is a priority. The Event has a robust security management plan, which is coordinated by Event security and the Metropolitan Police.

What age gets into Wonderland for free?

At what age are children required to have an admission ticket? Guests under the age of 3 do not require an admission ticket to Canada's Wonderland. Guests may be asked to provide identification for age verification. Any guest that is 3 years of age or older requires an admission ticket.

Do Germans say "merry Christmas"?

Frohe Weihnachten

Frohe Weihnachten is the classic for Merry Christmas in German. It is short, spot on and easy to learn — even for beginners. Frohe means joyful and Weihnachten of course translates to Christmas. Nothing could describe this magical time of the year with all its treats, decorations and stories better.

What is Germany's symbol for Christmas?

German Good Luck Symbols or German Christmas Symbols: As Found in German Pyramids, German Smokers, German Cuckoo Clocks and German Nutcrackers. Germany is known for providing the candle pyramid, nutcrackers, and smokers to Christmas celebrations, but there are many other Christmas symbols, which stem from this country.

What is Santa Claus called in Germany?

Santa Claus - Der Weihnachtsmann

The term Weihnachtsmann is a very generic German term for Father Christmas, St. Nicholas, or Santa Claus. The German Weihnachtsmann is a fairly recent Christmas tradition having little if any religious or folkloric background.

How to dress for Berlin in December?

Berlin experiences cold winters around 0-5°C so comfort should be the priority. Practical clothing that is both warm and stylish is the best choice. A heavy, insulated coat paired with thermal base layers, scarf, hat, and gloves are all essential.

Does it snow heavily in Berlin?

There is rarely much snow in Berlin- but if so, you should take the chance and get the carriage out of the cellar! The record number of days with snow in Berlin was in 1969 – 119 days of snow. The deepest snowfall in Berlin was recorded also in 1969. At the weather station in Tempelhof the snow was 55 cm deep.