Christmas Eve 2025
Date: December 24, 2025 (Wednesday)
Country: Germany Public Holidays
Description
Christmas Eve in Germany is the evening and night before Christmas Day. Many people treat this time as the main moment of the holiday season. It feels like the heart of the Christmas celebration.
It always falls on December 24. The day moves from daytime into evening, and many important moments happen after dark. It marks the end of Advent and the lead in to December 25.
For Christians the day has religious meaning because it remembers the birth of Jesus. For many others it is a quiet time for thinking and feeling grateful. The mood is often calm and thoughtful.
The day is important in German life and culture. It brings families and communities together mentally even when people are apart. It helps shape how the whole country views the holiday week.
Overall Christmas Eve matters because it blends belief and family focus. It is a shared time to pause, appreciate people you care about, and mark the start of the Christmas period.
Traditions
In Germany Christmas Eve is the main night for family celebrations. People often decorate and light the Christmas tree that evening. Families sing carols, light candles, and some visit a late church service called Christmette. Children wait excitedly for the gift giving called Bescherung.
Food varies by region, but simple, cozy meals are common. Many families eat roasted meat, fish, or a potato salad with sausages. Homemade cookies called Plätzchen and fruit cake called Stollen are served. After dinner families exchange gifts, tell stories, and enjoy quiet time together by candlelight and twinkling tree lights.
Travel Tips
Shops and many services close early on Christmas Eve. Plan to buy food, medicine, and tickets earlier in the day. Trains and buses often run reduced schedules and evening services can be crowded. Book seats and arrive at stations early.
Check local event times for markets and church services. Carry some cash because many places close cash machines or do not accept cards late. Stay in well lit areas, keep belongings secure, and save the local emergency number in your phone. Enjoy quiet walks and small local gatherings.