| German legend says that, on Christmas Eve, all the | | | | brighten the season. |
| rivers turn to wine, the animals speak to each other | | | | The first part of December is traditionally reserved for |
| and to humans, trees bear fruit, church bells ring from | | | | solemn religious reflection. In years past, this quiet |
| the sea, and gems pour forth from the mountains. Is it | | | | period lasted right up until Christmas itself. This time |
| any wonder, then, that family Christmas traditions in | | | | included a focus on reconnecting with your religion |
| Germany are bold, beautiful, and full of cheer? When | | | | through reflection and fasting. Modern Germans, |
| Christmas, or Weihnachten as the Germans call it, rolls | | | | however, tends to use a slightly shorter period of time |
| around in Germany, you'll find lots of beautiful | | | | while still preserving the idea of concentrating on the |
| decorations, delicious treats, and traditional stories to | | | | religious aspects of the season.. |