The holiday season is alive with tradition and celebration in Friesland, as communities come together to commemorate Christmas through various cherished customs. From heartwarming plays to the subtle inclusion of beloved pets, the festive spirit is palpable throughout the region.
One of the significant highlights of Christmas in Friesland is the tradition of Krippenspiele, or nativity plays, predominantly staged on Christmas Eve. A notable performance takes place at the Schlosskirche in Varel, where confirmands present the birth of Jesus. This year, the play begins with a touching exchange between a girl and her grandmother, as they navigate the Christmas story's significance. Following this heartwarming dialogue, scenes alternate between the grandmother's living room and the nativity scene, showcasing the blend of personal and religious celebration. The performance concludes as both characters head toward the nativity, symbolizing the family’s choice to embrace this central festive narrative. The play is part of the larger Christmas Eve services held across various community centers and churches, including the Katholische Jugend Oldenburg's presentation at Herz-Jesu-Kirche Zetel.
Beyond the traditional plays, families across Friesland bring their unique flavors and customs to the Christmas celebration. For Daniel Jochheim, the newly appointed lighthouse keeper of Wangerooge Island, this Christmas is particularly special as he reflects on the turbulent year behind him. Jochheim, who hails from Arnsberg, Nordrhein-Westfalen, plans to celebrate with his family at home, emphasizing the importance of being together during the festive season. He humorously recounts the contrasts between his past job's eerie solitude and the bustle of family gatherings, alluding to plans for Christmas together on the island next year. So, whether covered under snow or indulging in family traditions, he remains grateful for the time spent with his loved ones.
Meanwhile, refugees and their experiences add layers to the Christmas narrative, as many seek to integrate their traditions with newly adopted customs. Raul, his wife Daniela, and their children, who fled Colombia due to violence, find solace and continuity via their rich cultural traditions. They carry on the celebration of 'Dia de las Velitas,' lighting candles on December 7th, reflecting their connection to home. Raul explains the value of community during this festive period, enriching their current Christmas experience with the shared stories of fellow Colombian families, albeit missing the vibrancy of their pre-migration festivities.
Another family, the Mojtabas, recounts their relocation from Iran, where Christmas was not widely accepted. Now embracing the chance to connect with other cultures, they express their desire to celebrate with the true spirit of Christmas—real trees, traditional meals, and shared moments. Their cultural shift from Islam to Christianity reflects their desire for inclusivity and acceptance, especially during the holidays.
Abdurrahman and his family, originally from Turkey, highlight the contrasts between their beliefs and those of their neighbors. While they do not celebrate Christmas, they are learning to appreciate the spirit behind festive gatherings. With the communal events organized at their refugee center, where families enjoy tree decorations and participate in various Christmas activities, the essence of companionship is not lost.
Even the family pets take part in the celebrations as they link the spirit of Christmas back to the home. For Klara Sandrock, her dog Kessie and hamster Nelly are just as important as any family member. She shares her excitement about spoiling them with special gifts on Christmas morning. Similarly, the Schwarzenberger family marked the festive season by preparing special surprises not only for themselves but also for their pets. Each family member, whether two-legged or four-legged, plays a part in intertwining human and animal traditions during this joyous time.
Valerii Shakhnovych echoes this sentiment, emphasizing his Maine Coon cat, Leo, who brings joy and love to their busy household. Amid the cheerful chaos with their newborn son Kai, Leo's presence under the Christmas tree signifies the warmth of family, reminding them of their shared bonds, whether feline or human. Dog owners like Karol Schmejchel, who operates 'Good Dog Studio,' witness the love shown through pet pampering, underscoring the integral role pets play during such celebrations.
With all these narratives weaving together, Friesland's Christmas traditions resonate deeply within its community, showing how love, family, and hope can radiate across different cultures and customs. No matter the circumstance of their upbringing or the backdrop of their celebrations—be it plays, personal gatherings, or remembering family lost—the essence of Christmas remains joyful and inclusive.
From Christians to refugees, and from pets to humans, the holiday festivities reveal powerful stories of connection, belonging, and the acceptance of diverse traditions. This collective Christmas spirit, lovingly nurtured through various practices, displays how festivities can provide comfort and continuity, reflecting the vibrant character of the region.
