I have been lucky to experience many traditions already here in Germany, which is a fair exchange for putting on my own tradition through Thanksgiving!
Barbarafest
Just last week, I was introduced to a tradition in Germany among geologists, which is the celebration of Barbarafest. St. Barbara is the patron saint of minors, artillerymen and geologists (a strange combination), but her saint day is celebrated very diligently by all geologists throughout Germany. Our department here in Kiel threw a small party in her honor, and I learned that I had to become "baptized" by Barbara in order to be recognized colloquially as a geologist by other geologists in Germany. So I attended the festivities, wore my silly hat and was baptized! I received a new name: Ferrosilicat (ferrosilicate), which is now my official geological nickname. It was nice to be officially welcomed into the group of geologists in Germany and, while a little bit silly, the experience was really fun!
Weihnachtsmarkt
Christmas in Germany is called Weihnacht ('v-eye nakt') and it is a really big celebration here!
