How Germany prepares for Christmas — in the summer

After a long, hot summer and right in time for the beginning of meteorological autumn on September 1, German supermarkets have stocked up on cookies, cakes and chocolates traditionally associated with Christmas.

Like every year, many Germans are insulted to see Lebkuchen and spice cookies on the shelves in late August. The summer holidays are not even over yet, and one can still expect a few relaxing days by the lake. It's simply too early. 

Still, there must be some people buying those seasonal products before December comes around.

The Association of the German Confectionary Industry (BDSI) said Thursday in a press statement that "after enjoying months of ice cream, many Germans are looking forward to cooler temperatures and the popular autumn treats" — which is why they should not just be reserved for the month of December.

Gingerbread is a German favorite

Lebkuchen, a soft gingerbread cookie, seems to top the list of German favorites, followed by crunchy spekulatius spice cookies. According to Germany's Destatis statistics office, Germans eat an average of one kilo of the specialty winter treats per year.  

The German manufacturers' goodies are mainly sold on the German market, too, with just a fifth exported around the world, the BDSI says. The German Lebkuchen production company Lambertz actually delivers their specialty cakes to Russia and South American countries all year long, according to owner Hermann Bühlbecker. 

If you are one of those people who just can't wait to decorate your Christmas tree and already have all your presents wrapped up, hidden in a cupboard, the gallery above provides some insights on how you can get into the Christmas mood in Germany — even if it's still summer.