Christmas Day
Nationwide public holiday in Germany · Erster Weihnachtstag
Dates
| Year | Date | Weekday | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2026 | 25 December | Friday | Nationwide |
| 2027 | 25 December | Saturday | Nationwide |
Where it applies
Everywhere in Germany.
Is it a day off?
Yes. It is an official public holiday, so most employees have the day off. Government offices, schools and many businesses are usually closed; shops, restaurants and public transport may keep reduced hours. Check local announcements for opening times.
Make it longer
Fri 25 Dec – Sun 27 Dec is a 3-day weekend with no leave needed.
Plan more breaks with the leave planner.
Typical weather in Berlin around 25 December: high 6°C (42°F), low 1°C (34°F), rain on 46% of days.
Averages for 2015–2024, 3 days either side of the date, for the area around Berlin. Past averages, not a forecast.
Forecast for Friday 25 December in Berlin: (MET Norway)
About Christmas Day
In Germany, Christmas Day is known as Erster Weihnachtstag, the first of two public holidays that follow Christmas Eve. Because the main family celebration and the exchange of presents traditionally take place on the evening of 24 December, Christmas Day itself is usually a quieter day centred on family.
Traditions
Many families gather for a festive lunch or dinner, with roast goose served with red cabbage and dumplings as a classic choice. Christmas trees decorated in the home stay up through the holidays, and church services are held in the morning.
Editorial summary by Public Holidays World. Dates on this page come from the data source; customs vary by region and family.
Coming up next in Germany
Saturday, 26 December 2026
Christmas Day in other countries
More for Germany
Holiday dates are for general information and can change. Official government announcements take precedence.