Irish-German Christmas with a Family from Beckum Irish-German Christmas with a Family from Beckum
Christmas is a celebration that is celebrated differently around the world. In Germany, December 24th, Christmas Eve, is considered the most important day of the Christmas season. However, a family from Beckum embodies the harmony of Irish and German traditions, thus bringing a special touch to their Christmas celebration.
The Irish-German family, consisting of parents Sarah and Michael and their two children, has developed its own traditions that unite both Irish and German customs. Sarah, who originally comes from Ireland, emphasized that the Christmas season has always been a special occasion for her to bring together the cultures of both countries. This is already reflected in the festive decoration of their home. Not only are there the typical German Christmas lights, but also Irish symbols like the Celtic cross and traditional Irish wrapped gifts.
A highlight in the pre-Christmas period is baking cookies. Sarah explained that she and her children consider cookie baking one of the most beautiful traditions.They not only conjure up the classic German gingerbread but also the Irish "Barmbracks," a fruit bread that is very popular at Christmas in Ireland. This sweet bread is traditionally baked with various surprises that are meant to bring luck and blessings for the coming year.
Christmas Eve is celebrated by the family with great anticipation. The children are allowed to help decorate the Christmas tree while Michael, who is from Germany, sings some of the traditional German Christmas carols. Christmas Eve culminates in a festive dinner that includes both Irish and German dishes. A typical Irish dish they prepare is "Irish Stew," while they also serve the classic German roasts and dumplings.
On the morning of Christmas Day, the family is always excited about opening presents. The children once expressed that the most fun part is spending time together with family and enjoying the anticipation, and the parents can hardly wait for this shared time as well.
A special tradition that Sarah has introduced to her Christmas celebrations is reading Irish Christmas stories.In doing so, she takes the opportunity not only to introduce the children to Irish culture but also to convey the values of family and community.
The blend of Irish and German traditions makes this Beckum family's Christmas celebration unique. It is important to them that their children are proud of both cultures and appreciate the beauty of the different customs. Thus, Christmas becomes not just a festival of giving but also a time when cultural boundaries fade and the family comes together.
Through this harmonious connection of Irish and German traditions, the family from Beckum creates an atmosphere of joy and togetherness that embodies the true essence of Christmas. The magic of this holiday is shaped by their individuality and openness, honoring both the Irish and German past.
Ultimately, their example shows how valuable it is to connect different cultures and create memories that last a lifetime.
Author: Anita Faake, Tuesday, December 24
