Mullerthal

Waldbillig, Echternach, Luxembourg

December is one of the best times to visit Luxembourg and see firsthand how some of its legendary figures come to life. Traditionally, the most important winter holiday has been "Kleeserchersdag" on December 6. In the nights running up to the big day, children leave their slippers out, and the kindly "Kleeschen" (St Nicholas) fills them with goodies. The day is so important that primary schools close so that children can enjoy their treats.

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Luxembourg, Luxembourg, Luxembourg

"Kleeschen" is often seen in the company of a dark figure called the "Houseker". Dressed in black and exuding menace, naughty children risk getting hit with the bundle of sticks he carries everywhere. In early December, visitors can see "Houseker" and "Kleeschen", with his recognisable bishop’s mitre and staff, at any number of places around Luxembourg, in processions in and around the city. In the Moselle in Remich, "Kleeschen" arrives triumphantly by boat.

Grund

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Many neighbouring countries have a folktale about St Nicholas saving three children, and Luxembourg has its own local spin, expressed in a 1944 poem. Back when Luxembourg City was a "Festung" (fortress), three adventurous boys sneaked over the wall and found themselves in the Grund, which today is one of the capital’s most iconic neighborhoods and through which the tranquil Alzette River runs. There, the boys encountered an evil man nicknamed "Monni Metzler" (Uncle Butcher) who turned them into jellied pâté. Luckily for the boys, "Kleeschen" eventually showed up and resurrected them.

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Luxembourg, Luxembourg, Luxembourg

In the weeks leading up to 25 December, many families set up a Christmas tree and hang an Advent calendar with sweets inside. On 24 December, some families attend "Metten" (midnight Mass). Traditionally, they would then eat "Träipen" (blood sausage), a potato dish, and apple puree – washed down with a mug of the hot mulled wine "Glüwäin".

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Luxembourg, Luxembourg, Luxembourg

Some families exchange gifts for Christmas, but this practice is fairly new and takes place on 24 December, as is typical in neighbouring France, Belgium and Germany. In Luxembourg, it is not the “Weihnachtsmann” (Santa Claus), who brings gifts to kids, but rather “Chrëschtkëndchen”, the baby Jesus.

1 Rue des Moulins
Waldbillig, Echternach

And Christmas would not be Christmas if one did not enjoy some "Boxemännchen" – traditional glazed brioche rolls that look like little men – which you can find in every supermarket and bakery in the country.

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Luxembourg, Luxembourg, Luxembourg

Of course, the lead up to Christmas would not be complete without Luxembourg’s many Christmas markets.