Christmas abroad: This is how Steyrer celebrate in Denmark and the USA

Christmas abroad: This is how Steyrer celebrate in Denmark and the USA

In the contemplative period of the year, many Austrians celebrate Christmas far from their homeland. This is reported by Meinbezirk.at by Günther Eckhard, who moved to Denmark 14 years ago to work as a family doctor. He now lives in Esbjerg with his family, where they decorate the Christmas tree in early December. Unlike in Austria, the festival is traditionally shaped in Denmark by July, a variant of the Santa Claus. The Eckhards enjoy a mixture of local and domestic dishes, including raclette and turkey on Christmas. Nevertheless, the absence of the great Austrian Christmas markets often causes nostalgic feelings.

But also in the United States, some Austrians spend the holidays in a new environment. The yoga teacher Katharina Tschurtschenthaler tells how she experiences a different Christmas with her family in Greenville, South Carolina. Her children, one of them only five years old, discover the celebrations beyond the ocean, while the older siblings dream of their homeland and remember common, unforgettable moments with their grandparents. In the middle of American traditions, such as the colorful Christmas lights, Christmas decorations from Austria are lovingly integrated into their celebrations.

Christmas markets and traditions in Denmark

Denmark is known for its cozy Christmas markets, which offer an inviting atmosphere. As Daenischessen.com reports, visitors can expect the typical Danish "hyglary" feeling. The Glögg, a hot spice drink, and Christmas delicacies are a must on these markets. When the Danes not only celebrate but also live their traditions, the role of the Nisser, the Christmas goblins, plays a major role. It is customary to put a bowl of rice pudding in the attic to make the Nisser mild mild. The Danish Christmas cuisine rounds off the festival with delicacies such as the inserted herring and the popular almond rice Ris à l’amande.