Rewritten Article:
Sunday before Advent, a heartfelt occasion known as Totensonntag, is an annual commemoration of lost loved ones. This poignant day falls on November 26 this year, marking a somber yet significant occasion in the German calendar.
1. A Century-Old Tradition
The roots of Totensonntag trace back to the 1800s, with its first celebration in the Kingdom of Prussia. King Friedrich Wilhelm III, bereaved by the loss of his wife, Louise von Mecklenburg-Strelitz, and honoring the fallen soldiers of the War of Liberation in 1813, created this occasion.
2. A Day of Solemnity
Totensonntag is recognized as a "day of silence" in most German states, except Hamburg. This designation typically imposes restrictions on public festivities that could disrupt the holiday's reverent atmosphere. This includes limitations on nightlife entertainment, such as dancing and live music performances.
3. Beyond German Borders
Beyond Germany's borders, Totensonntag is also observed in Switzerland, where it's called "Ewigkeitssonntag." Country's with a significant Protestant population, like Austria, Scandinavia, and the Netherlands, celebrate a similar day dedicated to remembering the deceased.
4. Christmas Markets' Dilemma
Many popular German Christmas markets, including Berlin, Münster, Munich, Augsburg, Bremen, Hanover, Lübeck, Frankfurt, and Hamburg, traditionally start their operations on November 27, the day after Totensonntag. However, other regions may open earlier or close on the 26th.
5. Ways of Observance
Paying tribute to departed loved ones on Totensonntag can take various forms, reminiscent of the Mexican holiday, “el Día de los Muertos.” Some choose to visit graves, while others attend church to light candles in honor of their loved ones, often lighting one candle for each individual they've lost.
6. Another Day of Remembrance
Germany also observes the "Volkstrauertag" (People's Mourning Day) on the second Sunday before the first Sunday of Advent. This solemn occasion honors victims of violence and war from all nations commemorated in a ceremony in the German Bundestag.
The Christmas markets in Germany usually begin to open around late November, from the 21st to 25th, and continue until late December or early January. Specific opening dates, such as Cologne's markets at 1 pm on November 17 and 6 pm on November 24, can be found on each market's official website.
While Totensonntag is primarily celebrated in Germany, it shares many similarities with "Ewigkeitssonntag" in Switzerland and observances of days dedicated to the deceased in countries with a prominent Protestant population, such as Austria, Scandinavia, and the Netherlands.
