Allerheiligen, Volkstrauertag, and Totensonntag: Regulations for the silent holidays in November

1. Allerheiligen: Meaning and customs

Allerheiligen, or All Saints' Day, is a Christian holiday celebrated on November 1st to commemorate all the saints, known and unknown. It is a day for remembering and honoring the saints, as well as reflecting on our own mortality. On this day, many people visit cemeteries to pay their respects to deceased loved ones, and churches hold special services to celebrate the saints.

There are many traditional customs associated with Allerheiligen. In some countries, people light candles at the graves of their loved ones, while in others, they decorate graves with flowers and other decorations. Some people also bake special breads or pastries to share with family and friends.

2. Volkstrauertag: Meaning and observance

Volkstrauertag, or National Day of Mourning, is a German holiday observed on the Sunday before Totensonntag. It is a day to commemorate the victims of war and tyranny, and to promote peace and reconciliation. On this day, many people attend memorial services and lay wreaths at war memorials.

Volkstrauertag was first observed in 1919, shortly after the end of World War I. At the time, it was known as Totenfest, or Day of the Dead. The name was changed to Volkstrauertag in 1952.

3. Totensonntag: Meaning and customs

Totensonntag, or Sunday of the Dead, is a Christian holiday observed on the last Sunday before the first Sunday of Advent. It is a day to remember and honor the dead, and to reflect on the meaning of death and resurrection. On this day, many people visit cemeteries to pay their respects to deceased loved ones, and churches hold special services to remember the dead.

There are many traditional customs associated with Totensonntag. In some countries, people light candles at the graves of their loved ones, while in others, they decorate graves with flowers and other decorations. Some people also bake special breads or pastries to share with family and friends.

Special regulations for the silent holidays in November

In Germany, Allerheiligen, Volkstrauertag, and Totensonntag are considered to be "silent holidays." This means that there are certain restrictions on activities that can be carried out on these days. For example, loud music and dancing are not permitted, and businesses are closed.

The following activities are generally permitted on silent holidays in Germany:

• Attending religious services
• Visiting cemeteries
• Walking in the woods or countryside
• Spending time with family and friends

It is important to note that the regulations for silent holidays can vary from state to state in Germany. It is always best to check with local authorities to find out what activities are permitted on these days.