Festive Nights Flaunting the Magic of German Christmas Houses
Every year, homes in Germany get transformed into captivating spectacles with thousands of glowing orbs illuminating the winter nights, each house buzzing with festive vibes and warm hospitality. Dirk van Acken, a nurse from Oberhausen, is one of these dedicated creators, dedicating weeks of preparation to transform his house into a dazzling exhibition - his very own 'Christmas house'.
In the spirit of the season, Dirk van Acken dons his dark red Santa Claus suit every day until December 23rd, ensuring the door to his festive wonderland is always open to visitors. From the large inflatable snowman greeting guests at the entrance, to the living room drowned in an ocean of decorations, this 94 square-meter home is a riotous array of festive accents – from nutcrackers to reindeer, vibrant baubles, and a myriad of Christmas knick-knacks.
Welcome to the 'Christmas House'
Dirk’s humble abode is no longer just a home; it melts into a vibrant canvas adorned with more than 70,000 fairy lights that shimmer brightly against the crisp winter night, accompanied by the continuous loop of Christmas music streaming from the internet. A spectacular revolution of snow cannons both at the front and back uplift the festive spirit, as the house releases a sprinkle of fluffy white snow, creating a magical winter wonderland.
Expecting an overflow of visitors, Dirk ensures an uninterrupted display, welcoming guests seven days a week without a break. Friendly smiles and warm greetings accompany every visit as Santa Claus, flanked by his team of elf helpers, delights children with a selection of treats. Adults can sip on a steaming mulled wine, tasting the merriment as they chat with old friends and new acquaintances. A heartfelt thanks is given for any contributions, as the Dirk's home serves as a platform to raise funds for ancient and new causes.
The Fiscal Costs of Spreading the Festive Cheer
Behind the scenes, the massive effort to bring joy to the community takes a toll on the budget. Each year, Dirk spends hundreds of euros on supplies for the holiday, from various warm beverages to the endless number of candies and treats he offers visitors. Christmas ornaments, decorations, and lights all add up to a substantial expense, not to mention the electricity bill that multiplies with the addition of countless bulbs and cannons.
The Budget-conscious Santa's Social Mission
Despite the financial burden involved, Dirk's self-proclaimed mission to create a social project for those less fortunate remains unwavering. From his generous handouts during the '1st advent' of Christmas to the collection of food donations for animal shelters, this dedicated Santa ensures that his home doesn't overlook those in need.
For Dirk, this social cause is more important than any financial aspect, ensuring that his home is an all-inclusive space where children beam with joy as they choose their extra toy, and families escape the hustle and bustle to enjoy warmth, happiness, and the spirit of the season.
Replicating Generosity in Bavaria
The spirit of community is not unique to Dirk in Oberhausen. Families like the Voss family in Hohenlinden, Bavaria, have similarly taken up the mantle, transforming their home into a Christmas spectacle for the purpose of charity. With over 30,000 lights programmed to dance to the accompaniment of 15 songs, this Bavarian home is a vibrant hub of festive cheer. Visitors are encouraged to join in the interactive fun, pressing the button on the fence to spark the next tune and discover the magic of the Christmas show.
With Christmas approaching, the spirit of giving and sharing is alive in Germany as families and communities embracing the festive traditions and social causes that light up the winter nights.
