What do Sternsingers do?
In Catholic parts of Germany and in Austria, this is done by the Sternsinger (literally “Star singers”). After having sung their songs, recited a poem, and collected donations for children in poorer parts of the world, they will chalk the blessing on the top of the door frame or place a sticker with the blessing.
What is Epiphany called in Germany?
Epiphany (Epiphanie, Epiphanias, Erscheinung des Herrn) is annually celebrated in Germany on January 6 to mark the Magi’s (or three wise men’s) visit to baby Jesus.
What is Epiphany and the Sternsinger in Germany?
Three King’s Day on January 6th is an official holiday in many parts of Germany and is celebrated in many ways. One such tradition is the appearance of “Sternsinger” – translated as star singers or Epiphany singers – who are groups of children who, on “Dreikönigstag” take part in nationwide carol singing.
Who are Sternsingers in Germany?
Germany’s ‘Sternsinger’ tradition. The Bible says that the Three Wise Men followed a star to bring gifts to the Baby Jesus. Every year, half a million young carol singers follow their example to raise funds for children’s aid projects worldwide.
What is Das Dreikönigsfest?
In Austria and parts of Germany and Switzerland, Christmas does not officially end until January 6. That date commemorates the religious feast day known as Epiphany or das Dreikönigsfest (“three kings festival”) in German.
How is Epiphany celebrated in Austria?
A common tradition for those in Austria who celebrate Epiphany is to create a special sign to place on their front door. The sign is written in chalk, and the message is a reminder of when the Wise Men visited baby Jesus.
Why does Germany have 3 days of Christmas?
Many nations celebrate the full 12 days of Christmas, through to the feast day of Epiphany, Three Kings Day, on January 6th. In Germany the twelfth day of Christmas is celebrated as Three King’s Day (Dreikönigstag) and commemorates the arrival of the Magi in Bethlehem to present their gifts to the infant Jesus.
How is Epiphany celebrated in Germany?
Today this day is celebrated as a public holiday in much of Germany. There are special church services, children dress as Star Singers and go door to door collecting treats and coins, and (my favorite) men travel door to door dressed as kings blessing houses with a chalk C + M + B.