Christmas Day Description
Christmas Day (Erster Weihnachtsfeiertag) on December 25th is a nationwide public holiday in all 16 German federal states, celebrating the birth of Jesus Christ. It is the most important family holiday in Germany. The main celebration traditionally takes place on Christmas Eve (Heiligabend, December 24th), which is not a public holiday but is treated as one by custom — most businesses close by early afternoon and the evening is reserved for family gift-giving (Bescherung) around the Christmas tree, followed by a festive meal. Christmas Day itself is quieter, with families attending church services and enjoying a traditional feast, which often features roast goose (Weihnachtsgans) with red cabbage and dumplings. Government offices, banks, schools, and all retail shops are closed. Public transport runs on heavily reduced holiday schedules — some rural routes may not operate at all. Christmas markets (Weihnachtsmärkte) in most cities close by December 23rd or 24th, though a few remain open through the holiday period. Restaurants that open typically require advance reservations.
