Traditions

Kölner Karneval Enlarge image (© dpa) Passed down from one generation to the next, our traditions and customs help define who we are and often function as milestones in our lives. While many interesting traditions and customs are limited to Germany or a particular region of Germany, others are celebrated throughout western Europe or shared with many parts of the world. Decorating a Christmas tree or hiding Easter eggs, for example, are widespread traditions that originated in Germany.

Easter eggs

Easter Traditions in Germany: Painted Eggs and Tail-Coated Horsemen

Christ’s resurrection has given us one of the most important festivals in the calendar. Easter is deeply rooted in German culture: it is a time for celebrations across the country – and the observance of a wide range of customs.

Festzelt - Schottenhammel - auf dem Oktoberfest, Muenchen - 22.09.2010

The Oktoberfest (in Munich)

The Oktoberfest in Munich is a legend. Not only in Munich, but also in other parts of Bavaria and Germany there are traditional autum festivals.The Oktoberfest in Munich is by far the most famous and biggest.

Some krazy onlookers - called Jecken and Narren (akin to jesters and jokers) - follow the Rose Monday parade on February 23, 2009 in the western German city of Düsseldorf. © picture-alliance/dpa

Carnival in Germany - an old tradition

Carnival is celebrated with greater dedication in parts of Germany than in any other European country. It is a time of elaborate parades, masks, balls and election of Carnival kings and queens and official madness.

Many Germans also celebrate the birthday of Martin Luther, which is actually November 10, on St. Martin’s Day.

Traditional St. Martin song "Ich geh mit meiner Laterne"

"Ich geh mit meiner Laterne" (Traditional song) Ich geh' mit meiner Laterne I go with my lantern Und meine Laterne mit mir. And my lantern goes with me. Dort oben leuchten die Sterne, Up above the s...

Traditions