Virtual European Village Alive!

The American holiday season was shaped, in part, by the thousands of Europeans who immigrated here in the 19th century.

european village christmas treeClick on the videos below to learn more about some familiar customs.
 

Featured Homes
Croatian Licitar Hearts

These heart-shaped dough ornaments can still be found on many modern trees. Find out more about this tradition in our video.

Discover

English Christmas Carols

Christmas carols may be overplayed today, but at one point they were in danger of being lost. Watch our video to learn how this tradition was preserved.

Discover

German Gingerbread

Gingerbread’s popularity rose along with the spice trade. Click for our video to learn which German city gave us this delicious holiday tradition.

Discover

Hanukkah Menorah

Hanukkah is known as the Festival of Lights! Watch our video to hear the story of the Maccabees and how the Hanukkah Menorah came to be.

Discover

Italian Nativity Scenes

The first nativity scene was a living recreation in Naples 800 years ago. Watch our video to learn more about the origins of this popular tradition.

Discover

Norwegian Straw Ornaments

Straw ornaments were seen as a representation of goodwill to all. Click for our video to learn more about the importance of straw in Norway’s holiday customs.

Discover

Polish Oplatek Wafers

Milwaukee was a hub of Polish immigration, and as such, oplatek wafers can still be purchased in Catholic churches during the holiday season. Watch our video to learn more about the oplatek ceremony during the Christmas season.

Discover