If you’re dreaming of a cozy, magical holiday season this year, a German style Christmas might be just what you’re looking for. Known for its rich traditions, twinkling markets, and charming handmade decor, Germany offers timeless inspiration for anyone wanting to bring warmth and wonder into their home this winter.
Here are seven beautiful ideas to help you create your own authentic German style Christmas.
How to have a German style Christmas
1. Decorate with Traditional Wooden Ornaments
Nothing says German Christmas more than classic wooden decorations. Think intricately carved nutcrackers, Räuchermänner (incense-smoking men), angels, and miniature scenes crafted from natural wood. These ornaments are not only beautiful but often passed down through generations, adding a nostalgic and personal touch to your holiday decor.
Look for pieces made in the Erzgebirge region of Germany — the heartland of traditional wooden Christmas crafts.
2. Bake Authentic German Christmas Cookies
German holiday baking is legendary, and your kitchen will smell incredible with traditional recipes like:
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Lebkuchen (spiced gingerbread)
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Zimtsterne (cinnamon star cookies)
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Vanillekipferl (crescent-shaped vanilla biscuits dusted with sugar)
These treats make wonderful gifts when wrapped in festive tins or bags, and they’re a delicious way to experience the taste of a German style Christmas.
3. Create a Traditional Advent Wreath
In Germany, the Advent season is celebrated with a beautiful wreath known as the Adventskranz. It features four candles — one for each Sunday leading up to Christmas — and is typically decorated with evergreens, berries, pinecones, and ribbon.
Lighting the candles weekly is a cherished tradition that adds a peaceful, reflective rhythm to the festive season.
4. Hang a Herrnhuter Star for a German Style Christmas
Also known as a Moravian star, the Herrnhuter star is a staple of German Christmas decor. These geometric, multi-pointed stars are usually hung in windows, porches, or living rooms to represent the Star of Bethlehem.
Available in various sizes and colors, they bring a warm glow and a traditional feel to any German style Christmas home. German Christmas crafts are just beautiful!
5. Serve Homemade Glühwein – Christmas ideas from Germany
Warm up chilly winter evenings with Glühwein, the German version of mulled wine. This festive drink is made by gently heating red wine with cinnamon, cloves, orange peel, and other warming spices.
It’s a staple at Christmas markets across Germany and can easily be recreated at home. Serve it in thick mugs, ideally with a side of gingerbread or roasted nuts, for a truly cozy experience.
6. Celebrate St. Nicholas Day on December 6th
St. Nicholas Day is a key part of a German style Christmas. On the evening of December 5th, children leave their polished boots outside the door in hopes that St. Nicholas will fill them with sweets, nuts, or small toys overnight.
This charming tradition adds an extra layer of excitement to the festive season and can be easily incorporated into family celebrations.
7. Play Traditional German Christmas Carols
Set the mood with a playlist of traditional German Christmas music. Classics include:
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Stille Nacht (Silent Night)
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O Tannenbaum
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Leise rieselt der Schnee
Whether you’re relaxing by the fire or baking cookies, these carols bring an unmistakable sense of peace and nostalgia to your home.
Final Thoughts on Creating a German Style Christmas
Bringing a German style Christmas into your home is all about warmth, tradition, and thoughtful details. Whether you’re baking heirloom cookies, lighting an Advent candle, or hanging wooden ornaments passed down from family, this festive style is about slowing down and savoring the season.
If you’re looking to create a Christmas that feels meaningful, magical, and beautifully nostalgic, these German-inspired ideas will guide you toward a truly enchanting holiday.
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