Christmas is a time of celebration around the world. Unique rituals are a part of Christmas in Europe, many of which surround mythological ideas of Christmas. The Christmas tree first appeared in 1605 in Strasbourg, now in France but then a part of Germany. Most every town in Germany will have an outdoor Christmas market with many crafts and decorations on sale.

The song, “Silent Night” comes from Austria and is now in many languages and sung the world over. Germany is famous for its Christmas wreaths and special baked goods. German children ask for presents by writing a letter to the Christ Child. Another tradition is to leave shoes outside the door filled with straw and carrots for St. Nicholas’ horse.

In Switzerland the parents usually decorate the Christmas tree on Christmas Eve. After a big Christmas Eve dinner, the Catholics go to a midnight Mass.

Depending on the region, Christmas gifts are exchanged on Christmas Eve, January 1, or January 6.

In the United Kingdom, Christmas celebrations began in 596 A.D. Children leave an empty stocking or pillowcase hanging at the end of the bed, hoping in the morning it will be full of presents. The day after Christmas in England is called Boxing Day because boys used to go around collecting money in clay boxes. When the boxes were full they broke them open.

Some people in Scotland celebrate New Year’s more than Christmas. In Portugal some still practice an old custom of setting out extra plates for the dead family members. Many Norwegians still celebrate the old idea of an elf known as Julebukk who brings gifts to every home.

Christmas is a great celebration in Europe with Christmas carols, cards, trees, ornaments, stockings, gingerbread, and frankincense. Many traditions in America started in Europe. Christmas is by far the largest celebration in Western society.

Larry Hess
Field Director
Europe: Western/Mediterranean/Middle East

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© 2008 Church of God World Missions