Stiefesdag in Luxembourg
Stiefesdag is a holiday in Luxembourg.
When is Stiefesdag in Luxembourg
Stiefesdag is celebrated on 26, December, 2023 in Luxembourg.
About Stiefesdag in Luxembourg
Stiefesdag, also known as Steftag or St. Stephen’s Day, is a public holiday celebrated in Luxembourg on December 26th every year. It is named after Saint Stephen, the first Christian martyr, who was stoned to death for his beliefs.
Stiefesdag is a day of rest and relaxation for Luxembourgers, following the festivities of Christmas Day. It is a time for families and friends to come together and enjoy each other’s company. Many people take this opportunity to visit loved ones, exchange gifts, and share a festive meal.
In some regions of Luxembourg, there are traditional customs associated with Stiefesdag. One such tradition is the “Steffenchen,” a straw effigy of St. Stephen, which is paraded through the streets. The effigy is adorned with colorful ribbons and carried by children, who go from house to house, singing traditional songs and collecting treats or small donations.
Another custom is the “Steffen,” a special type of bread or pastry shaped like a staff or a cross. These breads are often baked and enjoyed on Stiefesdag, symbolizing the connection to Saint Stephen.
While Stiefesdag is primarily a day for relaxation and spending time with loved ones, some communities also organize sports events, concerts, or other cultural activities to celebrate the holiday.
Overall, Stiefesdag is a cherished holiday in Luxembourg, providing an opportunity for people to unwind, connect with their community, and enjoy the festive spirit of the season.
History of Stiefesdag in Luxembourg
Stiefesdag, also known as St. Stephen’s Day or Boxing Day, is a public holiday celebrated in Luxembourg on December 26th. The holiday has its roots in Christian traditions and has been observed for centuries.
The origins of Stiefesdag can be traced back to the early Christian church. St. Stephen was one of the seven deacons appointed by the apostles to assist in the ministry of the early church. He was known for his strong faith and dedication to helping the poor and needy.
According to Christian tradition, St. Stephen was the first Christian martyr. He was stoned to death for his beliefs, making him an important figure in early Christianity. The date of his martyrdom, December 26th, became a significant day of remembrance and celebration in the Christian calendar.
In Luxembourg, Stiefesdag is a public holiday, and many people have the day off work or school. It is a time for families to come together and continue the festive celebrations that began on Christmas Day. It is also a day to remember and honor St. Stephen’s legacy of charity and service.
One of the traditional customs associated with Stiefesdag in Luxembourg is the “Éimaischen” market. This market takes place in the city of Luxembourg and is known for its pottery and ceramics. People gather to buy and sell handmade clay birds, known as “Peckvillercher,” which are believed to bring good luck and happiness for the coming year.
Another tradition on Stiefesdag is the “Klibberen,” a custom where children go door-to-door, singing songs and reciting poems in exchange for treats or small gifts. This practice is similar to the tradition of “wassailing” in other countries.
Over the years, Stiefesdag has evolved to include various cultural and social activities. It is a time for Luxembourgish people to relax, spend time with loved ones, and enjoy the holiday season.
In conclusion, Stiefesdag is a public holiday in Luxembourg celebrated on December 26th. It has its roots in Christian traditions and honors the memory of St. Stephen, the first Christian martyr. The holiday is marked by family gatherings, the Éimaischen market, and the Klibberen tradition. It is a time for Luxembourgish people to come together, celebrate, and continue the festive spirit of Christmas.
How is Stiefesdag celebrated in Luxembourg
Stiefesdag, also known as St. Stephen’s Day, is celebrated in Luxembourg on December 26th. It is a public holiday in the country and is marked with various traditions and activities.
One of the main traditions on Stiefesdag is the “Éimaischen” fair, which takes place in the city of Luxembourg. This fair is known for its pottery market, where local artisans sell their handmade pottery products. People gather to browse through the stalls and purchase traditional pottery items, such as the “Péckvillercher” (little bird-shaped whistles) or the “Klibberen” (clay marbles).
Another popular activity on Stiefesdag is the “Hämmelsmarsch” (sheep procession). Participants dress up in traditional costumes and parade through the streets with a flock of sheep. This tradition dates back to the Middle Ages when the procession symbolized the transfer of grazing rights from one farmer to another.
Additionally, many families take this opportunity to spend time together and enjoy a festive meal. Traditional Luxembourgish dishes, such as “Bouneschlupp” (green bean soup) or “Judd mat Gaardebounen” (smoked neck of pork with broad beans), are often served on Stiefesdag.
Overall, Stiefesdag in Luxembourg is a day of celebration, where people come together to enjoy traditions, purchase pottery, participate in parades, and share a meal with loved ones.
Dates
Stiefesdag will be celebrated in Luxembourg on 2023-12-26, 2024-12-26, 2025-12-26, 2026-12-26, 2027-12-26 in the comming years.