Meaning & Origin
Christmas Day, or 1. Weihnachtstag, is a Christian holiday celebrating the birth of Jesus Christ. It is arguably the most important and beloved religious and cultural holiday in Germany. The holiday is deeply rooted in German traditions that have influenced Christmas celebrations around the world, such as the Christmas tree, or Weihnachtsbaum, which originated in Germany in the 16th century. The celebration of Christmas is a time for family, togetherness, and reflecting on the values of peace and goodwill.
Christmas Day will be celebrated on Thursday, December 25 in 2025, and the following year, in 2026, it will take place on Friday, December 25.
| Year | Date | Applicable States |
| 2025 | December 25 (Thursday) | All States |
| 2026 | December 25 (Friday) | All States |
How it’s Observed
Christmas Day is a nationwide public holiday. All schools, offices, banks, and most shops are closed. The main celebration in Germany takes place on Christmas Eve (Heiligabend), December 24th, when families gather for a festive meal, sing carols, and exchange gifts. The day is a time for quiet reflection, family gatherings, and visiting church. A traditional Christmas meal often includes dishes like roasted goose, turkey, or fish, accompanied by potato dumplings and red cabbage. The streets are beautifully decorated with lights and Christmas markets, which are a major attraction during the festive season.
Vacation Planning
Christmas Day and Boxing Day together create a two-day public holiday, which is an excellent opportunity for a longer winter vacation. Many people take additional days off to create an extended break over the holidays. Travelers should be aware that most businesses will be closed, so planning is essential. The period between Christmas and New Year’s is a popular time for winter sports, visiting Christmas markets, or exploring Germany’s historical cities with their festive decorations.
| Vacation Dates | Used Paid leave | Included holiday | Total vacation days | Applicable States |
| 22nd – 24th Dec 2025, 29th – 31st Dec 2025, 2nd Jan 2026 | 7 | 25th Dec 2025, 26th Dec 2025, 1st Jan 2026 | 16 days | All states |
| 22nd – 24th Dec 2025, 29th – 31st Dec 2025, 2nd Jan 2026, 5th Jan 2026 | 8 | 25th Dec 2025, 26th Dec 2025, 1st Jan 2026, 6th Jan 2026 | 18 days | Baden-Württemberg Bavaria Saxony-Anhalt |
| 22nd – 24th 2025, 29th – 31st Dec 2025, 2nd Jan 2026, 5th Jan 2026, 7th – 9th Jan 2026 | 11 | 25th Dec 2025, 26th Dec 2025, 1st Jan 2026, 6th Jan 2026 | 23 days | Baden-Württemberg Bavaria Saxony-Anhalt |