Christmas in the Erzgebirge
An interview with Andreas Müller about traditions, craftsmanship, and the message of Christmas
In Saxony, where MÜHLE is based, the Christmas season is celebrated with great enthusiasm. The Ore Mountains, known as the cradle of world-famous wooden crafts, create a unique atmosphere with their handcrafted nutcrackers, incense smokers, pyramids, and candle arches that attract visitors from around the globe. These intricate works, lovingly carved and painted by hand, are not only symbols of the region but also expressions of its deeply rooted traditions.
In addition to artisanal craftsmanship, the region’s culinary delights are an essential part of the festive season. Specialities like Stollen and gingerbread reflect the warm and welcoming spirit typical of this time of year. In the Ore Mountains, every piece of craftsmanship, every dish, and every tradition tells a story — a story of community, authenticity, and the heart of a unique region.
Andreas Müller, Managing Director of MÜHLE, tells us in an interview how closely Christmas is linked to the traditions of the Erzgebirge (Ore Mountains) and what makes this time so special for him.
What does Christmas day look like for you?
Andreas Müller (AM):
In Germany, Christmas Eve is actually more important than Christmas Day. Like many other families, we decorate the Christmas tree on the morning of December 24th and dress up for the occasion in the afternoon. Later, we attend the Christmas Eve service, usually around 4:00 or 5:00 pm.
When we return, we light all the candles in the house and enjoy our Christmas dinner. Traditionally, this includes the "Neunerlei," a meal consisting of nine simple dishes, such as sauerkraut, sausages, lentils, bread, and other side dishes.
Afterwards, we exchange gifts and spend time together as a family. Many of us go to bed early, as there’s a morning church service on Christmas Day. During the service, the church is solely lit by real candles, and the Christmas story is performed by amateur actors or children.
What is your favourite ritual?
AM: The Erzgebirge (Ore Mountains), the region where we live and where MÜHLE is based, is renowned for its Christmas customs and traditions. Many Christmas decorations, such as wooden nutcrackers, incense smokers, and light arches, are still handmade here today.
Decorating the house four weeks before Christmas marks the start of the festive season and is a must for many people here. This is a tradition we uphold at MÜHLE as well. Traditional light arches and Herrnhut stars illuminate our office and production halls.
Visiting the region’s unique Christmas markets is another ritual I wouldn’t want to miss. It’s just as much fun for the children as it is for the adults. And if there’s a performance of J.S. Bach’s Christmas Oratorio somewhere, I am definitely joining!
What has been the best gift you’ve ever received?
AM: I can’t recall a single best gift. In the end, it’s the gesture behind the gift that truly matters to me. A few years ago, our family decided to stop exchanging gifts altogether. That Christmas turned out to be the most relaxing I’ve ever experienced—it took so much pressure off me. Now, with small children, it’s wonderful to see how happy they are with their presents and how much fun they have giving gifts to us.
How do the traditions and values of the Ore Mountains influence your work and MÜHLE’s philosophy?
AM: Craftsmanship in the Ore Mountains is deeply rooted in the culture, history, and identity of the region. The art of making wooden toys, the Glashütte watchmaking tradition, and – thanks to MÜHLE – the craft of brush and shaving brush manufacturing have flourished here for over 200 years, especially in the communities around Stützengrün. Every handmade product from our manufactory is a testament to this living craft and part of the MÜHLE DNA.
That said, we don’t shy away from modern processes. On the contrary: while our roots ground us, our gaze is always directed towards the future.
Do you have a wish for the festive season that you’d like to share?
AM: The challenges and societal changes of recent months and years haven’t left me, or MÜHLE as a family business, unaffected. I hope that we as a society can find our way back to listening to each other without prejudice, rather than stubbornly clinging to our own perspectives. Compassion and good relationships are values we shouldn’t just expect from others but must actively embody ourselves. The message of Christmas reminds us that greatness often begins in the small and humble. It brings hope and encourages us to look to the future with confidence and courage.
