The tradition of the Christmas village decoration, also known as a putz, is a beloved holiday custom with roots in European culture, specifically within Germany and the Netherlands. This popular tradition involves creating miniature villages or dioramas that depict scenes related to the Christmas story or holiday season.
German Tradition of Christmas Villages
The word ‘putz’ comes from the German term ‘putzen’ which means ‘to decorate’, especially for Christmas. The tradition was brought to America primarily by Pennsylvania Dutch immigrants in the early 18th century. Over time, it has evolved and spread, becoming a cherished part of the holiday season for many families around the world.
Photo by Nathan Anderson on UnsplashWhat does a Christmas village decoration include?
Typically, a Christmas village set will feature a range of buildings, figures, and landscapes. These can include houses, churches, shops, and more, often with a snowy or festive theme. Many sets also include miniature people, animals, trees, and other details to create a lively and bustling scene.
Christian additions to the Christmas village
In addition to these secular elements, many Christmas villages also include elements related to the nativity story, such as a manger scene, the Star of Bethlehem, the Wise Men, and more. This mix of sacred and secular elements is one of the things that makes the Christmas village tradition so unique and versatile.
Photo by Tyler Delgado on UnsplashWhat are Christmas villages made from?
Traditionally, these Christmas villages were made from materials like paper, cardboard, and wood. However, modern Christmas villages can also be found in ceramics, resin, and other materials. Some are handcrafted, while others are mass-produced. Some even feature lights, moving parts, or music to add an extra touch of magic to the scene.
Where to display a Christmas village
Setting up the Christmas village is often a cherished family tradition, with each member of the family helping to place the different elements of the village. It’s common for the village to be displayed on a mantel, tabletop, or other prominent place in the home where it can be easily seen and enjoyed. Some families even have special tables or platforms built just for their Christmas village.
The Christmas village tradition is not only a fun and creative way to decorate for the holidays, but it also provides a tangible way to connect with the holiday’s historical and religious roots. Each unique village is a miniature world that reflects the joy, wonder, and spirit of the Christmas season.