In the spirit of the impending Advent season, homes across Bavaria are once more aglow with vibrant light shows. A shining example of this tradition can be found in Hohenlinden, nestled in the greater Munich area, where over 30,000 lights dance rhythmically to over a dozen tunes. House owner Sebastian Voß explains, "Our setlist boasts fifteen tracks, each activated with a simple button press on the fence." Visitors are treated to a warm welcome, with the Voss family offering complimentary mulled wine, if they're lucky enough to catch a homeowner.
The Hohenlinden Christmas lights fand their origins in 2010, and the Voss family have used the tradition as a platform to raise funds for the Friends of the German Heart Center in Munich, a cause close to their heart. Their eldest daughter has a heart condition and has undergone multiple surgeries at this esteemed institution. Each year, the dazzling display garnered approximately 4000 Euros in donations.
Alas, not all Christmas houses continue to shine as brightly. A well-known Munich location, once a beacon of festive lights, has decided to dim its sparkle for this year. The house's operator cited waning interest, citing bad weather and an oversaturated climate of holiday activities as factors.
In contrast, despite the changing tides, some die-hard enthusiasts have remained dedicated to their traditions. In Balzhausen, Swabia, Josef Glogger has held fast to his passion for decorating his home, attracting between 6,000 and 7,000 visitors annually. Like the Voss family, Glogger also donates the proceeds to a worthy cause, in this case, the University Hospital in Ulm, where his wife underwent cancer treatment.
Throughout Bavaria, the tradition of adorning homes with Christmas lights persists, with each town boasting its own unique displays and stories. The cozy lights are not only a festive sight but also reflect the unyielding spirit of the people who keep the Christmas cheer alive in their communities.
