Every year, as Christmas approaches, the German Colony in Haifa hosts its New Year Bazaar. Not a Christmas market, but a New Year celebration—a tradition distinct from the fabricated “Holiday of Holidays,” which has faded over time, and from the deeply religious observance of Christmas itself. This celebration introduces a third element: a tradition that is authentic, unique, and unlike any other.
The New Year tradition was born in a land where strict divisions between “us” and “them” shaped society. Yet, remarkably, this holiday endured, outliving the era and the country that created it. Today, it continues to bring joy to those who have moved far beyond the days of its origin.
Visitors flock to Haifa, inspired by the idea of Christmas, and they undoubtedly find the festive trappings they seek. But one question lingers: is this truly the celebration they came for? That answer lies with you.
The Christian community of Haifa celebrates Christmas with great enthusiasm, transforming the German Colony into a vibrant hub of holiday cheer. Visitors flock to the lively streets to immerse themselves in the festive atmosphere, capture memorable moments in photographs, and enjoy the magical glow of twinkling lights. These lights, more than anything else, evoke a true sense of wonder.
However, beyond the surface excitement of the holiday lies a deeper story. Allow me to take you on a journey down Ben-Gurion Street, the heart of the German Colony in Haifa, where history and modernity blend seamlessly, creating an experience that is both timeless and enchanting.
