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History and Traditions
The Second Advent Sunday in Germany is part of the traditional Christian lead-up to Christmas known as Advent. The term "Advent" comes from the Latin "adventus" which means "coming," and it is a period of preparation for the celebration of the birth of Jesus Christ. Advent begins on the fourth Sunday before Christmas Day, with each subsequent Sunday leading up to Christmas referred to as the First, Second, Third, and Fourth Advent Sundays.
German traditions during this time are deeply rooted in Christian beliefs. On each Advent Sunday, families often light a new candle on the Advent wreath—an evergreen wreath with four candles—symbolizing hope, peace, joy, and love. By the Second Advent Sunday, two candles are lit.
What People Do
Lighting Candles: On the Second Advent Sunday, families light the second candle on their wreath.
Attending Church Services: Many people attend special church services that focus on the themes of anticipation and preparation for Christ's coming.
Advent Calendars: Children typically open another door or window of their Advent calendars.
Preparing for Christmas: It is a time where preparations for Christmas intensify; homes are decorated further, and baking traditional cookies (Plätzchen) becomes more common.
Christmas Markets: People continue to visit Christmas markets (Weihnachtsmärkte), where they enjoy festive foods and shop for gifts and decorations.
Musical Celebrations: Traditional music can be heard during this period with choirs performing Advent songs.
The focus of Second Advent Sunday is very much on communal and familial activities that heighten the anticipation for Christmas while maintaining an atmosphere reflective of its spiritual significance.
