Traditional German Christmas Celebrations

This is another in our series of Christmas celebrations from around the world. We intend to continue publishing these throughout the coming year, so please look out for these.  

Germany is renowned for its rich cultural heritage and festive traditions, and Christmas is one of the most magical times of the year to experience this. 

From bustling Christmas markets to cherished family customs, German Christmas celebrations blend history, faith, and joy in unique ways. 

Here, we look into some of the most beloved traditions that make Christmas in Germany truly special.

Advent: A Time of Preparation

Christmas in Germany begins with Advent, the four weeks leading up to Christmas Day. Many German households display an Advent wreath (Adventskranz), typically made of evergreen branches and adorned with four candles. Each Sunday in Advent, a new candle is lit, often accompanied by prayers or carol singing.

Advent calendars (Adventskalender) are another cherished tradition. Originally designed to count down the days until Christmas, these calendars have evolved from simple paper designs to elaborate creations filled with chocolates, toys, or even small bottles of wine.

Christmas Markets (Weihnachtsmärkte)

Germany’s Christmas markets are world-famous, drawing visitors from across the globe. These markets, often held in town squares, are a feast for the senses. Stalls brimming with handmade ornaments, artisanal gifts, and festive foods create a magical atmosphere.

Visitors can enjoy traditional treats like Lebkuchen (gingerbread), Stollen (fruitcake), and roasted nuts. To ward off the winter chill, a mug of Glühwein (mulled wine) is a must. Iconic markets such as those in Nuremberg, Dresden, and Cologne are particularly popular.

Nikolaustag: St. Nicholas Day

On the night of 5th December, children place their shoes or boots outside their doors in anticipation of St. Nicholas’ (Nikolaus) visit. If they’ve been good, they wake to find their footwear filled with sweets, nuts, and small gifts. Naughty children, however, might receive a bundle of twigs from Krampus, Nikolaus’ mischievous companion.

Heiligabend: Christmas Eve

Christmas Eve (Heiligabend) is the highlight of the German Christmas season. Families come together for a festive meal, often featuring dishes like roast goose, carp, or fondue. In some regions, potato salad and sausages are the traditional fare.

After dinner, families gather around the Christmas tree (Tannenbaum), which is usually decorated with candles, baubles, and straw ornaments. It’s also common to sing carols and exchange gifts on this evening.

Christmas Day and Second Christmas Day

In Germany, both 25th and 26th December are public holidays. Christmas Day is usually spent with close family, while the Second Christmas Day (Zweiter Weihnachtsfeiertag) is often reserved for visiting extended family or friends. Traditional meals on these days might include roasted meats, dumplings, and red cabbage.

Epiphany: The Final Celebration

The Christmas season in Germany officially concludes on 6th January, Epiphany (Dreikönigstag). On this day, groups of children dressed as the Three Wise Men go door-to-door singing carols and blessing homes. They write the initials of the Magi (C+M+B) and the year above doorways, a practice believed to bring good fortune.

A Season of Joy and Reflection

German Christmas traditions are steeped in history and community spirit. Whether it’s the glow of candlelit trees, the warmth of Glühwein at a market stall, or the joy of family gatherings, these customs capture the essence of the festive season. For those lucky enough to experience Christmas in Germany, it’s a time of wonder, joy, and cherished memories.

How to Enliven Your New Year Party with Homemade Wine Spritzers

Why not add a touch of flair and fun to your celebration is by offering a DIY wine spritzer bar. 

Wine spritzers are light, refreshing, and easy to customise, making them the perfect party drink. Here’s how you can set up your own wine spritzer station and elevate your New Year festivities.

Why Wine Spritzers?

Wine spritzers are not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. By mixing wine with soda water, lemonade, or flavoured sparkling waters, you can create an array of drinks to suit every palate. 

They’re also lighter in alcohol than straight wine, which makes them a great choice for pacing yourself throughout the evening.

Setting Up Your Wine Spritzer Bar

1. Choose Your Wines

The foundation of any good spritzer is the wine. Offer a selection of wines to cater to different tastes:

White Wine: Crisp and fruity varieties like Sauvignon Blanc, Pinot Grigio, or Riesling work beautifully.

Rosé: A dry or slightly sweet rosé adds a lovely blush to your spritzers.

Red Wine: For those who prefer red, opt for a lighter variety like Pinot Noir or a chilled Lambrusco.

2. Stock Up on Mixers

The magic of a spritzer lies in the mixer. Provide a variety of options, such as:

Soda Water: For a classic, crisp spritzer.

Lemonade: Adds a touch of sweetness and zing.

Flavoured Sparkling Waters: Experiment with citrus, berry, or tropical flavours.

3. Add Garnishes

Garnishes elevate your spritzers from simple to spectacular. Set out bowls of:

Fresh fruit slices (lemon, lime, orange, or berries)

Herbs like mint, basil, or rosemary

Edible flowers for a festive touch

How to Make the Perfect Spritzer

The beauty of a spritzer is its simplicity. Follow this easy formula for a perfectly balanced drink:

Fill a glass with ice. This keeps the drink chilled and refreshing.

Pour in wine. Use about two-thirds of the glass.

Top with a mixer. Add soda water or lemonade to fill the glass.

Garnish. Add fruit, herbs, or a decorative stirrer for flair.

Spritzer Variations to Try

Want to impress your guests with some pre-made options? Here are a few ideas:

Citrus Zing: White wine, soda water, and a splash of orange juice, garnished with an orange slice.

Berry Bliss: Rosé, lemonade, and fresh raspberries or strawberries.

Herbal Red: Light red wine, sparkling water, and a sprig of rosemary or thyme.

Tips for a Successful Spritzer Bar

Label Everything: Use small signs to label wines, mixers, and garnishes.

Provide Recipes: Display simple recipe cards to inspire guests.

Offer Non-Alcoholic Options: Include sparkling grape juice or alcohol-free wine for those who prefer not to drink.

Cheers to a Memorable New Year

With a DIY wine spritzer bar, you’ll not only add a touch of creativity to your New Year party but also give your guests a fun and interactive way to enjoy their drinks. Whether they prefer sweet, dry, or something in between, everyone can craft a spritzer that suits their taste.

So, gather your ingredients, pop the corks, and toast to a fabulous year ahead! Cheers!

Welcoming the New Year with a Quiet Night In: A Low-Key Celebration with Family and Friends

As the New Year approaches, the idea of crowded pubs and bustling parties might feel overwhelming. 

For many, a quieter, more intimate celebration at home with loved ones is the perfect way to ring in the new year.  This is the option my wife and I are going for, this year.

A low-key gathering can be just as meaningful—if not more so—than a big night out. Here’s how to create a cosy, memorable evening that’s all about connection, relaxation, and joy.

1. Set the Scene for Comfort and Warmth

Transform your home into a welcoming haven. Dim the lights, light some candles, and add soft touches like blankets and cushions. Fairy lights and a crackling fire (or a digital one on your TV!) can add a touch of magic. Creating a cosy atmosphere sets the tone for a relaxing and enjoyable night.

2. Plan a Delicious Spread

No need for elaborate meals—keep it simple and comforting.

Sharing Platters: Create a grazing board with cheeses, charcuterie, crackers, and fresh fruit.

Comfort Food: Think homemade pizzas, hearty soups, or baked pasta dishes.

Sweet Treats: Bake cookies or brownies together, or set up a DIY dessert bar with toppings for ice cream or hot chocolate.

Let everyone pitch in with their favourite dishes for a potluck-style feast.

3. Create a Custom Drinks Menu

Offer a selection of drinks, both alcoholic and non-alcoholic, to suit all tastes.

Signature Cocktails: Choose a couple of easy-to-make cocktails, like a sparkling elderflower spritz or a classic mojito.

Mocktails: Cater to non-drinkers with creative mocktails, such as a berry fizz or a citrus cooler.

Hot Drinks: Mulled wine, spiced cider, or hot chocolate are perfect for a chilly evening.

4. Choose Relaxed Entertainment

Keep the mood light with activities that encourage laughter and conversation.

Board Games: Classic games like Scrabble, Monopoly, or Pictionary are always a hit. A new, fun and easy to play game my wife have found is Oh, My Pigeons! by Ravensburger. We are so taken by this fun game (playable by two or more players) that we'll include the link to Ravensburger below.

Movie Marathon: Pick a theme or let everyone vote on their favourite films to watch.

Trivia Night: Create a quiz with fun questions about the past year or general knowledge.

If your group enjoys music, set up a karaoke session or a “guess the song” challenge.

5. Reflect on the Past Year

Take a moment to look back on the highlights of the year gone by.

Gratitude Jar: Have everyone write down something they’re grateful for and share their thoughts.

Photo Memories: Create a slideshow of photos from the past year to relive special moments.

Resolutions and Goals: Share hopes and goals for the new year—whether serious or silly!

6. Plan a Special Countdown Moment

Even in a quiet setting, the countdown to midnight is a highlight.

Countdown Toast: Gather everyone for a heartfelt toast as the clock strikes twelve.

Sparklers or Confetti: Step outside to light sparklers or toss confetti in celebration.

Write Letters to the Future: Encourage everyone to write a note to their future selves to open next New Year’s Eve.

7. Keep It Flexible

The beauty of a quiet night in is that there’s no strict schedule. Let the evening flow naturally, whether that means lingering over dessert, chatting into the early hours, or wrapping up early for a good night’s sleep.

Why Choose a Quiet Celebration?

A low-key New Year’s Eve allows you to focus on what truly matters: spending quality time with the people you care about most. It’s an opportunity to relax, recharge, and start the new year feeling connected and at peace.

Celebrating the New Year doesn’t have to be about big crowds and loud parties. A quiet night in with family and friends can be just as joyful and meaningful. So, gather your loved ones, put on your comfiest clothes, and welcome the new year with warmth, laughter, and love. Here’s to a wonderful year ahead!

https://www.ravensburger.co.uk/en-GB

How to Avoid Common Mistakes with New Year’s Resolutions

The start of a new year is the perfect time to set goals and make positive changes. However, many people find themselves abandoning their resolutions just weeks into January. 

Why does this happen? Often, it’s due to common mistakes that can derail even the best intentions. Here’s how to avoid these pitfalls and make your resolutions stick.

1. Don’t Be Overly Ambitious

The Mistake: Setting too many resolutions or aiming for unrealistic goals.

The Fix: Focus on one or two meaningful goals that are achievable. Instead of saying, “I’ll work out every day,” aim for “I’ll exercise three times a week.” Starting small makes success more likely and sustainable.

2. Be Specific

The Mistake: Making vague resolutions like “get fit” or “save money.”

The Fix: Set clear, measurable goals. For example, “Lose 5kg by June by exercising and eating healthier” or “Save £100 each month for a holiday.” Specific goals give you a clear target and make it easier to track progress.

3. Avoid All-or-Nothing Thinking

The Mistake: Believing one slip-up means failure.

The Fix: Accept that setbacks are part of the process. If you miss a workout or overspend one week, don’t give up. Reflect on what went wrong, adjust your approach, and keep going. Progress, not perfection, is the goal.

4. Have a Plan

The Mistake: Setting a resolution without figuring out how to achieve it.

The Fix: Break your goal into smaller steps and create an action plan. For instance, if your resolution is to “read more books,” decide how many books you want to read and set aside specific times for reading each week.

5. Stay Accountable

The Mistake: Keeping your resolutions to yourself.

The Fix: Share your goals with a friend, family member, or online community. Regular check-ins can keep you motivated. Alternatively, consider tracking your progress in a journal or app to stay on course.

6. Make It Enjoyable

The Mistake: Choosing resolutions that feel like a chore.

The Fix: Find ways to make your goals enjoyable. If you want to exercise more, choose activities you genuinely enjoy, like dancing, hiking, or swimming. The more fun it is, the more likely you are to stick with it.

7. Avoid Relying Solely on Willpower

The Mistake: Assuming sheer determination will carry you through.

The Fix: Build habits and create an environment that supports your goals. For example, if you want to eat healthier, stock your kitchen with nutritious foods and prep meals in advance. Reducing friction makes it easier to stay consistent.

8. Celebrate Small Wins

The Mistake: Waiting until the end goal to feel accomplished.

The Fix: Acknowledge and reward progress along the way. If your goal is to save £1,000, celebrate each £100 milestone. Small wins boost motivation and reinforce positive behaviour.

9. Reassess and Adjust

The Mistake: Sticking rigidly to a resolution that no longer fits.

The Fix: Life changes, and so should your goals. Periodically review your resolutions and make adjustments if necessary. Flexibility ensures your goals remain relevant and achievable.

10. Focus on the “Why”

The Mistake: Losing sight of the reason behind your resolution.

The Fix: Remind yourself why you set the goal in the first place. Whether it’s improving your health, finances, or relationships, keeping your “why” in mind will help you stay motivated.

11. Make a resolution that you'll want to keep. 

The Mistake: Making resolutions you really have no expectation of being able to keep.

The Fix: Have a resolution that you can work with throughout the year. For example: Have more fun with friends and family and work with community groups throughout the year by volunteering for local projects, etc.

New Year’s resolutions are a powerful way to inspire change, but they require thoughtful planning and realistic expectations. By avoiding common mistakes and focusing on small, consistent actions, you can turn your resolutions into lasting habits. Remember, the goal isn’t perfection—it’s progress. Here’s to a successful and fulfilling new year!

How to Stage a Fantastic New Year’s Eve Party

New Year’s Eve is the ultimate occasion to celebrate, reflect on the past year, and ring in the new one with style. 

Hosting a party can feel daunting, but with a bit of planning and creativity, you can create a memorable event that your guests will rave about.

 Here’s a step-by-step guide to staging a fantastic New Year’s Eve party.

1. Set the Theme

A great party starts with a great theme. Whether it’s a classic black-tie affair, a retro disco night, or a cosy pyjama party, having a theme sets the tone and helps guests know what to expect. Your theme will also guide your choices for decorations, food, and entertainment.

2. Send Invites Early, if you can

New Year’s Eve is a busy night, so send out invitations well in advance. You can go traditional with printed invites or opt for digital invitations via platforms like Evite or WhatsApp. Make sure to include details like the dress code, start time, and any special activities planned.

3. Plan the Décor

Create a festive atmosphere with decorations that match your theme. Think fairy lights, metallic balloons, candles, and a touch of sparkle. A photo booth with props like hats, masks, and signs is a fun addition that doubles as entertainment and a way to capture memories.

4. Curate a Killer Playlist

Music is essential for setting the mood. Start with upbeat tracks to energise the room, transition to crowd-pleasers, and have a countdown-worthy anthem ready for midnight. If you’re not confident in your DJ skills, use pre-made playlists on Spotify or hire a DJ.

5. Offer Delicious Food and Drinks

Food: Finger foods and small bites are ideal for a New Year’s Eve party. Think sliders, mini quiches, and cheese platters. If you want to go all out, consider a themed menu.

Drinks: A well-stocked bar is key. Offer a mix of alcoholic and non-alcoholic options, and don’t forget champagne for the midnight toast. A signature cocktail that matches your theme adds a special touch.

6. Plan Fun Activities

Keep your guests entertained with games and activities:

Countdown Predictions: Have guests write down their predictions for the new year.

Party Games: Trivia, charades, or a dance-off are always a hit.

Resolutions Jar: Set up a station where guests can write down their resolutions to share or keep private.

7. Create a Countdown Moment

The countdown is the highlight of the evening, so make it special. Whether it’s a live stream of Big Ben, a DIY countdown clock, or a balloon drop, build excitement as midnight approaches. Hand out party poppers, confetti cannons, or sparklers to make the moment even more magical.

8. Provide a Safe Exit Plan

Ensure your guests get home safely by arranging transport options. Share details of local taxi services or encourage carpooling. If space allows, offer a few places for guests to stay overnight.

9. Capture the Memories

Assign someone to take photos or hire a photographer for the evening. A photo booth or polaroid station lets guests take home instant memories.

10. End on a High Note

Wrap up the evening with a parting gesture, like a small gift bag containing mini champagne bottles, chocolates, or thank-you notes. It’s a thoughtful way to show appreciation and leave a lasting impression.

Hosting a New Year’s Eve party is all about creating an enjoyable atmosphere for your guests. With a bit of organisation and a focus on fun, your celebration will be the perfect way to welcome the new year. So, pop the champagne, turn up the music, and get ready to party in style!

How to Deal with Christmas-Related Debt: A Guide to Financial Recovery

The festive season is a time for joy, celebration, and giving, but it can also leave many of us with a financial hangover. 

Christmas-related debt is a common issue, as the pressures to spend on gifts, decorations, food, and travel often outweigh our budgets.

If you’re feeling overwhelmed by your holiday expenses, don’t worry—you’re not alone, and there are practical steps you can take to regain control of your finances.

1. Assess the Damage

Start by calculating exactly how much you owe. List all your debts, including credit card balances, loans, and any other expenses you incurred over Christmas. This might feel daunting, but having a clear picture of your financial situation is essential for making a plan.

2. Create a Budget

A realistic budget is the cornerstone of financial recovery. Review your income and essential expenses, such as rent, utilities, and groceries. Determine how much you can afford to allocate towards repaying your Christmas debt each month without compromising your basic needs.

3. Prioritise Your Debts

Not all debts are created equal. Focus on paying off high-interest debts, like credit cards, first. If you have multiple debts, consider using the avalanche method (paying off the highest-interest debt first) or the snowball method (paying off the smallest debt first for psychological motivation).

4. Cut Back on Non-Essentials

January is a great time to tighten your belt and cut back on discretionary spending. Cancel unused subscriptions, cook at home instead of dining out, and look for free or low-cost entertainment options. Redirect the money you save towards your debt repayment plan.

5. Consider Balance Transfers or Consolidation

If you’re dealing with high-interest credit card debt, look into balance transfer cards with 0% introductory rates or low-interest personal loans to consolidate your debts. These options can help reduce the amount of interest you pay, allowing you to pay off your debt faster.

6. Set Up a Savings Plan for Next Christmas

Once you’ve made progress on your current debt, start planning for the next festive season. Set up a dedicated savings account and contribute a small amount each month. By spreading the cost of Christmas throughout the year, you can avoid falling into the same debt cycle.

7. Seek Professional Advice if Needed

If your debt feels unmanageable, don’t hesitate to seek help. Organisations like StepChange or Citizens Advice in the UK offer free, confidential advice and can help you develop a debt management plan. Many local churches can tap into expert advice networks to help people in debt.

8. Reflect on Your Spending Habits

Finally, take some time to reflect on what led to your Christmas debt. Were there expenses you could have avoided? Could you simplify your celebrations next year? Setting boundaries and managing expectations with family and friends can help you stay within your means in the future.

Final Thoughts

Christmas-related debt can feel overwhelming, but with a clear plan and some discipline, you can recover and take steps to prevent it in the future. Remember, the holiday season is about spending time with loved ones—not about how much you spend. By focusing on what truly matters, you can enjoy a joyful Christmas without the financial stress.

Delicious Ways to Use Leftover Christmas Turkey: From a Tasty Curry to a Hearty Stew

After the Christmas feast, there’s often one star of the show that lingers in the fridge—turkey. Whether you’ve roasted a whole bird or gone for a crown, there’s usually plenty of meat left to play with. 

The beauty of leftover turkey is its versatility; it’s a blank canvas for a range of comforting and flavourful dishes.

Here are some delicious ideas to transform your leftover Christmas turkey into meals that will keep the festive spirit alive while avoiding waste.

1. Classic Turkey Curry

A turkey curry is a post-Christmas tradition in many households. It’s warming, flavourful, and a great way to feed a crowd.

How to Make It

Sauté onions, garlic, and ginger in oil until soft.

Add your favourite curry paste or spices (such as garam masala, turmeric, and cumin) and cook until fragrant.

Stir in a tin of chopped tomatoes and coconut milk, then simmer.

Add shredded turkey and cook until heated through.

Serve with rice, naan bread, and a dollop of yoghurt.

For a twist, try a Thai-style turkey curry with red curry paste, lime juice, and fresh coriander.

2. Turkey and Vegetable Soup

A hearty soup is perfect for using up turkey and any leftover vegetables from Christmas dinner.

How to Make It

Sauté onions, celery, and carrots in a large pot.

Add chopped turkey, leftover roasted vegetables, and a splash of white wine or sherry.

Pour in chicken or turkey stock and bring to a simmer.

Add herbs like thyme or parsley, and season with salt and pepper.

Blend part of the soup for a thicker texture or leave it chunky for a rustic feel.

Serve with crusty bread for a cosy meal.

3. Turkey and Leek Pie

A creamy turkey and leek pie is the ultimate comfort food.

How to Make It

Sauté sliced leeks in butter until soft.

Stir in leftover turkey and a splash of white wine or stock.

Add double cream or a cheese sauce, then season with salt, pepper, and a pinch of nutmeg.

Transfer to a pie dish, top with puff pastry, and bake at 200°C (400°F) until golden.

For extra flavour, mix in leftover ham or stuffing.

4. Turkey Enchiladas

Bring some spice to your leftovers with turkey enchiladas.

How to Make It

Mix shredded turkey with sautéed onions, peppers, and a dollop of sour cream or salsa.

Roll the mixture into tortillas and place them in a baking dish.

Top with enchilada sauce and grated cheese, then bake at 180°C (350°F) until bubbling.

Serve with guacamole, sour cream, and a sprinkle of fresh coriander.

5. Turkey and Sweetcorn Chowder

This creamy chowder is a comforting way to use up turkey and any leftover corn or potatoes.

How to Make It

Sauté onions, celery, and garlic in butter.

Add diced potatoes, sweetcorn, and turkey.

Pour in chicken stock and simmer until the potatoes are tender.

Stir in cream or milk, and season with thyme, salt, and pepper.

Serve with crusty bread for dipping.

6. Turkey Stir-Fry

A quick stir-fry is a light and tasty way to use up turkey.

How to Make It

Heat oil in a wok and stir-fry chopped vegetables (like peppers, carrots, and broccoli).

Add shredded turkey and a splash of soy sauce, hoisin sauce, or teriyaki sauce.

Toss in cooked noodles or serve over rice.

Top with sesame seeds and spring onions for extra flavour.

7. Turkey Shepherd’s Pie

Give a classic dish a festive twist by swapping beef or lamb for turkey.

How to Make It

Sauté onions, carrots, and celery, then add shredded turkey and a splash of gravy or stock.

Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and top with mashed potatoes (add a sprinkle of cheese if you like).

Bake at 200°C (400°F) until golden and bubbling.

8. Turkey Stew with Dumplings

A rich stew is the perfect winter warmer.

How to Make It

Sauté onions, garlic, and root vegetables in a large pot.

Add turkey, leftover gravy, and chicken or turkey stock.

Simmer until the vegetables are tender.

Drop spoonfuls of dumpling dough on top and cook until the dumplings are fluffy.

Serve with a side of steamed greens for a complete meal.

9. Turkey Caesar Salad

If you’re craving something lighter after the indulgence of Christmas, a turkey Caesar salad is a great choice.

How to Make It

Toss shredded turkey with crisp romaine lettuce, croutons, and Parmesan cheese.

Drizzle with Caesar dressing and top with a soft-boiled egg or anchovies for extra richness.

10. Turkey Sandwiches, but Elevated

The classic turkey sandwich gets a gourmet makeover with the right ingredients.

Ideas

Turkey Club: Layer turkey with crispy bacon, lettuce, tomato, and mayonnaise on toasted bread.

Festive Twist: Add stuffing, cranberry sauce, and a slice of Brie for a Christmas-inspired sandwich.

Hot Turkey Melt: Toast turkey with cheese and caramelised onions on sourdough bread.

A Dish for Every Mood

Leftover turkey is the gift that keeps on giving, offering endless possibilities for comforting meals. Whether you’re in the mood for a spicy curry, a creamy pie, or a simple salad, these recipes ensure no morsel of your Christmas feast goes to waste.

Happy cooking!