(X-mas cont. from pg 16).
And finally, we move to Germany, where Charlie and Noah Zecha’s family is from. A very important aspect of German Christmas traditions is the extensive variety of foods, one of Charlie’s favorite ways to celebrate. Pretzels, Bratwursts, and potato salad are a few of these foods, but they also use a type of grill known as a raclette to make multiple dishes at once. Meats, cheese, and vegetables are often cooked on the raclette and placed on toasted bread. And to drink, the adults have Glühwein, which is a German spiced wine. While the food is prominent, it’s not all that the Zecha family does to celebrate. Every year, Charlie’s dad reads the Nativity narrative in German. When Charlie spent Christmas in Germany, he experienced some of the carols in German as well. And finally, the Germans are famous for their Advent calendars, counting down the days to Christmas, and going to German markets. The Zecha family also has a special New Year’s tradition. Every year, they watch a classic German comedy sketch together to round out the old year.
It is easy to get caught up in the holiday season, but learning about fun traditions for world-wide holidays is more than worth it. From Mexico to Germany to the Philippines, or from tamales to bratwurst to pancit noodles, people worldwide have more traditions in common than you might imagine. At Notre Dame, we are blessed with families who celebrate the birth of the Savior in many unique ways. May He always find a place in our homes as we welcome His birth with Mary and Joseph this Christmas!
Can you name these favorite holiday dishes?
Answers (Left to right, top to bottom): Risalamande, Gluhwein, Bunuelos, Poutine, Crispy Pata, Supe pui cu Galuste, Moose Milk, Tamales