There are many reasons to visit Germany, but none quite so unique, entertaining, and adventurous like travelling to the country during the new year celebration. Like how its back home, New Year in Germany also has own exciting aura around it, and a list places to go and things to do that are eagerly waited on by all its people.
Things To Do During New Year In Germany
Wherever you live around the world, the turn of the year is always a special occasion. A moment that turns into a reason to celebrate for all the people with a whole set of traditions and customs. Often many travelers find themselves in Europe during the final week of the year and wondering where to go for New year’s eve in Germany to enjoy celebrations, parties, and rituals. Here we have compiled a list of all the German new year traditions, places to be, and things to try!
1. Street Party At Brandenburg Gate In Berlin
No New Year celebration is complete without a grand party, and the Germans certainly know a thing or two about how to throw a grand fiesta for the entire town. The city of Berlin throws a grand party every New Year’s Eve at Brandenburg Gate. The festivities begin at 2 in the afternoon and go well into the new year till 4 am.
The best part about the celebrations is that the entry to the fiesta is free, and visitors can also enjoy a fireworks show after midnight, musical performances during the evening, and a wide range of entertainment street shows that enhance the jubilant atmosphere.
Also Read: Villas In Germany
Europe Holiday Packages On TravelTriangle
Explore the most beautiful places to visit in Europe, from Paris to the Venice canals and from the Greek islands to the Swiss alps. Book customized packages by expert agents on TravelTriangle. Inclusive of airport transfers, cab, resort, sightseeing and meals. Best holiday experience Guaranteed. Book Now
2. Enjoy A Glass Of Sekt At Midnight
In many cultures worldwide, a cause for celebration is marked by exceptional food and drinks for that occasion. In Germany, the locals welcome the new year by clinking a glass of “sekt,” or German white wine, with their loved ones. When the clock strikes midnight, the Germans toast the year gone by and say “Prosit Neujahr,” which means “May the new year succeed.”
3. Watch The Cult Classic “Dinner For One” On TV
Some traditions worldwide start off as a gimmick or an utterly subconscious habit that later turns into having cultural value. One such tradition of the new year in Germany is the watching of the comedy sketch called “Dinner for One”. This comedy piece aired first across homes in Germany in 1963, and since then, it has penetrated into the minds and hearts of the German people as a tradition that they, to this day, proudly uphold and cherish.
Although the 18-minute comedy show is entirely in English, its humour is basic and understandable for German minds. So don’t be surprised if you see many Germans tuning into a black-and-white comedy program from an era long before us. Instead, we suggest you to watch the sketch and immerse yourself in the tradition.
Related Post: Berlin Churches
4. Watch The Fireworks Show In Frankfurt
Frankfurt has made a niche in Germany for an incredible New Year’s Eve fireworks show. A bustling city like Frankfurt comes alive every year on December 31 for a New Year celebration that is the envy of all other cities. As the clock approaches midnight, thousands of citizens gather around the banks of the River Main to watch the spectacle unfold.
Not only can travellers view the fireworks from the river, but they can also attain a good vantage point at famous monuments like the Old Opera House and Romerberg Marketplace. The celebrations in Frankfurt add a dash of romance, warmth, and fervour to the otherwise sub-freezing temperatures.
5. Be A Part Of The Cologne Cathedral Celebrations
Probably one of the coldest cities in Germany on New Year’s Eve, Cologne and its people are masters in braving the near-tormenting weather to welcome the new year with joy and aplomb. Every year, thousands of people gather in and around the visible radius of the massive Cologne Cathedral to sing, dance, party, and watch the fireworks fill the sky with the cathedral in its background.
Restaurants around the city centre offer outdoor seating and create a party atmosphere, making visitors feel comfortable celebrating this massive occasion.
Related Post: Germany Honeymoon
6. Devour Some Berliners
Not to be confused with eating actual people from Berlin, this ritual carried out on New Year in Germany is as German as any tradition can get. Eating sweets is a widely accepted norm during celebrations and big occasions. For Germany’s consumption of sugary delights, they indulge themselves in Berliners. They are soft, mushy, savoury, and delightfully sweet pastries stuffed with mouth-watering fillings like jam, chocolate, peanut butter, or any other liquid gel-based substance.
With so many traditions, celebrations, and parties lined up, the New Year celebration in Germany is bound to be memorable for everyone involved. What more would a traveller like than to be immersed in the culture of the place they are visiting and celebrate the new year in a completely unique and fun way?
You May Also Like To Read Oktoberfest Germany
Now you know how to celebrate this new year in Germany! Welcome the new year with an absolute bang on your travels. So, plan your trip to Europe and immerse yourself in a new experience that will usher in a great new year.
For our editorial codes of conduct and copyright disclaimer, please click here.
Frequently Asked Questions About New Year In Germany
Why is New Year called Sylvester in Germany?
December 31st is also St. Sylvester Day in Germany. Sylvester, I was a 4th-century pope in Germany in whose name a feast day is observed on December 31 until it started to be associated with New Year’s Eve.
How do you wish Happy New Year in German?
‘Ein glückliches neues Jahr!’ Is how you say Happy New Year in German. You can learn more German phrases with the help of this German Language Guide.
What do Germans eat on New Year’s Day?
Germans have a tradition of eating pork and sauerkraut on New Year’s. According to German traditions and beliefs, eating sauerkraut on the first day of the year brings good luck, wealth, and prosperity.
What is New Year’s Eve called in Germany?
New Year’s Eve in Germany is also called Sylvester.
How does Germany celebrate New Years Eve?
Germans celebrate New Year’s Eve with fireworks, music, traditional food, and lavish parties.
Is New Year’s Eve a holiday in Germany?
Yes, New Year’s Eve is a public holiday in Germany.
Which is the most popular German New Years tradition?
Here are some of the most popular German New Year traditions: 1. Rummelpott Laufen: Kids go from house to house singing and begging for sweets. 2. Sekt: Germans drinks a sparkling wine called Sekt on New Year’s. 3. New Year’s Food: Germans start their year by eating lentil soups and sauerkraut as they think it will bring them good luck. 4. Supper Parties: Germans organize late supper party with interactive food like fondue laid on their tables for New Year’s.
Looking To Book An International Holiday?
Book memorable holidays on TravelTriangle with 650+ verified travel agents for 65+ domestic and international destinations.
People Also Read:
New Year In Singapore New Year In New Zealand Dubai New Year
Pranav combines his love for languages, storytelling, and traveling to make a life out of it. A travel writer by profession, he believes in traveling with a purpose and sharing unheard stories through the perspective of the people and places he encounters along his way. When he’s not traveling, he likes to spend time watching sports, and binging on Netflix.
