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Those residing in the German states of Baden-Württemberg, Bavaria, North Rhine-Westphalia, Rhineland-Palatinate and Saarland can anticipate an easy commute, quiet streets and many shop closures on November 1.
“Allerheiligen,” or All Saints’ Day, is always celebrated on this date in these five traditionally Catholic states.
While the official name of the holiday tells us exactly what it is, a day set aside to remember the saints recognized by the Catholic church, it is in fact a bit more than that. An evening stroll past your community’s burial grounds will likely confirm this.
Families and friends of those who have passed away remember their loved ones by tidying their graves and decorating them with potted flowers, floral arrangements and keepsakes. They will also light a special type of lidded candle designed to withstand the elements and burn for several days running. This form of loving remembrance carries a conviction that those who have passed on are now in communion with God. The day is closely intertwined with All Souls’ Day on Nov. 2, a day dedicated to souls in purgatory, a period of purification of the soul prior to its grand entrance into heaven.
Although a legal holiday, don’t expect much in the way of excitement or festivities on the day. As one of the so-called “silent holidays,” dancing, discos and other forms of entertainment are banned, and those failing to abide by the law can be subject to a fine.
Once darkness has fallen on the evening, take a walk past the cemetery in the town you call home. Chances are you’ll find it bathed in the soft reddish glow of flickering candlelight. The peace and beauty of the scene may just evoke special memories of your own dear departed.
Those who make their homes outside Germany or plan travel on the day should be aware of the many other European countries that celebrate All Saints’ Day as a public holiday: Austria, Belgium, France, Hungary, Italy, Poland, Portugal, Spain and parts of Switzerland.
