1 00:00:00,566 --> 00:00:01,200 Hi, I'm Rick Steves, 2 00:00:01,266 --> 00:00:02,700 and it's Christmas time in Europe. 3 00:00:02,766 --> 00:00:06,200 From manger scenes to mistletoe, from Norway to Rome, 4 00:00:06,266 --> 00:00:08,333 we're celebrating all over the continent. 5 00:00:08,400 --> 00:00:09,400 Buon Natale! 6 00:00:09,466 --> 00:00:10,566 Froehliche Weihnachten! 7 00:00:10,633 --> 00:00:11,766 Joyeux Noel! 8 00:00:11,833 --> 00:00:13,466 Merry Christmas! 9 00:00:13,533 --> 00:00:15,466 And thanks for joining us. 10 00:00:15,533 --> 00:00:19,066 [ Background orchestra plays "Joy to the World" ] 11 00:00:41,166 --> 00:00:42,900 In melting pot America, 12 00:00:42,966 --> 00:00:45,000 Christmas is celebrated year after year 13 00:00:45,066 --> 00:00:47,633 with traditions that came over on the boat with our ancestors. 14 00:00:47,700 --> 00:00:49,366 In this holiday special, 15 00:00:49,433 --> 00:00:51,200 we're traveling back to the old country, 16 00:00:51,266 --> 00:00:53,966 to places of rich variety and deep roots. 17 00:00:54,033 --> 00:00:57,200 We'll explore the history behind our much-loved traditions. 18 00:00:57,266 --> 00:00:58,900 Joining friends and families across Europe, 19 00:00:58,966 --> 00:01:00,300 we'll discover a Christmas 20 00:01:00,366 --> 00:01:02,833 that's both familiar and different. 21 00:01:06,366 --> 00:01:09,833 England is filled with voices singing in the season. 22 00:01:09,900 --> 00:01:11,666 The short days around the solstice 23 00:01:11,733 --> 00:01:13,066 bring Norwegians out 24 00:01:13,133 --> 00:01:16,066 to celebrate the light of Christmas. 25 00:01:16,133 --> 00:01:17,200 Families, friends, and food 26 00:01:17,266 --> 00:01:20,633 are the centerpiece of the French Noel. 27 00:01:20,700 --> 00:01:24,166 An angelic Christmas presence fills Germany and Austria 28 00:01:24,233 --> 00:01:27,100 with magical wonder. 29 00:01:27,166 --> 00:01:29,133 Italy reveals the sacred nature of the season, 30 00:01:29,200 --> 00:01:33,200 from its countryside to its holiest shrines. 31 00:01:33,266 --> 00:01:34,766 Nature in all its wintry glory 32 00:01:34,833 --> 00:01:39,300 seems to shout out the joy of the season in Switzerland. 33 00:01:39,366 --> 00:01:42,200 And everywhere Christmas is celebrated with family, 34 00:01:42,266 --> 00:01:43,833 including my own, as together, 35 00:01:43,900 --> 00:01:46,100 Europe remembers the quiet night 36 00:01:46,166 --> 00:01:48,900 that that holiest family came to be. 37 00:01:51,766 --> 00:01:52,933 While each European culture 38 00:01:53,000 --> 00:01:54,933 gives Christmas its own special twist, 39 00:01:55,000 --> 00:01:56,400 they all follow the same story 40 00:01:56,466 --> 00:01:59,333 of how the Son of God was born on Earth, 41 00:01:59,400 --> 00:02:01,100 as told in the Bible 42 00:02:01,166 --> 00:02:03,466 and illustrated over the centuries by great artists. 43 00:02:07,300 --> 00:02:11,133 The Christmas story begins with the Annunciation: 44 00:02:11,200 --> 00:02:13,266 "An angel sent from God with a message 45 00:02:13,333 --> 00:02:17,333 "for a young woman whose name was Mary. 46 00:02:17,400 --> 00:02:19,066 "And the angel said, 47 00:02:19,133 --> 00:02:21,566 "'Fear not, for thou shalt bring forth a son, 48 00:02:21,633 --> 00:02:23,933 "'and you will name him Jesus. 49 00:02:24,000 --> 00:02:26,933 "'and he shall be called the Son of the Most High 50 00:02:27,000 --> 00:02:31,233 and his kingdom will have no end.'" 51 00:02:31,300 --> 00:02:32,700 "And it came to pass, 52 00:02:32,766 --> 00:02:35,066 "that there went out a decree from Caesar Augustus, 53 00:02:35,133 --> 00:02:38,233 "that all the world should be taxed. 54 00:02:38,300 --> 00:02:40,100 "And Joseph, a carpenter from Nazareth, 55 00:02:40,166 --> 00:02:42,866 "went to Bethlehem to be taxed, 56 00:02:42,933 --> 00:02:45,866 "with Mary, who was expecting a child. 57 00:02:45,933 --> 00:02:47,966 "And while they were there, 58 00:02:48,033 --> 00:02:49,866 "she brought forth her firstborn son 59 00:02:49,933 --> 00:02:51,533 "and laid him in a manger 60 00:02:51,600 --> 00:02:54,766 "because there was no room in the inn. 61 00:02:54,833 --> 00:02:56,566 "In that region, there were shepherds, 62 00:02:56,633 --> 00:02:58,600 "keeping watch over their flocks by night. 63 00:02:58,666 --> 00:03:01,566 "An angel of the Lord came to them, and said, 64 00:03:01,633 --> 00:03:03,300 "'Fear not, for behold, 65 00:03:03,366 --> 00:03:05,633 "'I bring you good tidings of great joy. 66 00:03:05,700 --> 00:03:09,166 "'For unto you is born on this day in the city of David, 67 00:03:09,233 --> 00:03:13,133 "'a savior, who is Christ the Lord.' 68 00:03:13,200 --> 00:03:15,366 "And suddenly there was a multitude of angels 69 00:03:15,433 --> 00:03:18,200 "proclaiming: 'Glory to God in the highest, 70 00:03:18,266 --> 00:03:23,500 "'and on Earth peace and good will to all.' 71 00:03:23,566 --> 00:03:26,033 "And the shepherds said, 'Let us go to Bethlehem,' 72 00:03:26,100 --> 00:03:28,166 "where they found Mary and Joseph 73 00:03:28,233 --> 00:03:32,200 "and the babe lying in a manger. 74 00:03:32,266 --> 00:03:34,766 "Now, after Jesus was born, there also came wise men. 75 00:03:34,833 --> 00:03:37,700 "And a glorious star, which they saw in the east, 76 00:03:37,766 --> 00:03:39,266 "went before them. 77 00:03:39,333 --> 00:03:43,300 "Guiding them, it stood over where the child was. 78 00:03:43,366 --> 00:03:45,566 "The wise men knelt down and worshipped the child, 79 00:03:45,633 --> 00:03:50,100 "giving him gifts: Gold, frankincense, and myrrh. 80 00:03:50,166 --> 00:03:53,666 The long-awaited Messiah had arrived." 81 00:04:16,400 --> 00:04:17,566 This is the story 82 00:04:17,633 --> 00:04:20,366 that Christians have celebrated through the ages. 83 00:04:20,433 --> 00:04:23,166 We don't really know on which day Jesus was born. 84 00:04:23,233 --> 00:04:25,400 Historians argue it was likely in the spring, 85 00:04:25,466 --> 00:04:27,866 as shepherds were "tending their flocks." 86 00:04:27,933 --> 00:04:31,300 But, in the 4th century, a pope declared December 25th 87 00:04:31,366 --> 00:04:33,433 to be the official birthday of Jesus. 88 00:04:33,500 --> 00:04:34,833 Why that date? 89 00:04:34,900 --> 00:04:37,266 Christianity was newly legal in the Roman empire, 90 00:04:37,333 --> 00:04:38,900 and the clever pope figured it would be smart 91 00:04:38,966 --> 00:04:40,500 if the biggest Christian festival 92 00:04:40,566 --> 00:04:44,100 coincided with the biggest pagan one: winter solstice. 93 00:04:44,166 --> 00:04:45,300 And throughout the land, people -- 94 00:04:45,366 --> 00:04:47,233 Christians celebrating the birth of the Son 95 00:04:47,300 --> 00:04:50,166 and pagans celebrating the return of the sun -- 96 00:04:50,233 --> 00:04:52,633 have been rejoicing ever since. 97 00:04:56,200 --> 00:04:57,866 For scenes straight out of a box 98 00:04:57,933 --> 00:05:00,266 of old-fashioned Christmas cards, 99 00:05:00,333 --> 00:05:02,966 we head to England, to the city of Bath. 100 00:05:06,000 --> 00:05:08,800 Here, in the heart of the old town 101 00:05:08,866 --> 00:05:10,733 near the magnificent medieval abbey, 102 00:05:10,800 --> 00:05:13,833 Bath hosts an annual Christmas market. 103 00:05:18,766 --> 00:05:20,366 - Woman: Hello. - Man: Hello. Mulled wine please? 104 00:05:20,433 --> 00:05:21,266 Woman: Yes. 105 00:05:27,033 --> 00:05:29,166 Carols are a deeply ingrained part 106 00:05:29,233 --> 00:05:31,533 of the English Christmas tradition. 107 00:05:31,600 --> 00:05:34,600 The custom goes back to Shakespeare's day. 108 00:05:34,666 --> 00:05:37,166 Today, young and old sing their way through the season. 109 00:05:37,233 --> 00:05:39,833 Here the Bath Abbey Choir of Boys and Men 110 00:05:39,900 --> 00:05:43,600 are performing a carol concert by candlelight. 111 00:05:43,666 --> 00:05:46,100 [ Choir singing "Oh, Holy Night" ] 112 00:06:43,566 --> 00:06:46,233 [ Introduction to light, staccato melody ] 113 00:06:47,266 --> 00:06:52,100 [ Choir singing ] 114 00:07:05,033 --> 00:07:06,800 As is the case just about anywhere, 115 00:07:06,866 --> 00:07:09,566 it's in the countryside that families celebrate Christmas 116 00:07:09,633 --> 00:07:12,333 in the most down-to-earth style. 117 00:07:12,400 --> 00:07:14,566 My friends Maddy and Paul and their kids, 118 00:07:14,633 --> 00:07:17,366 Theo and Leila, are looking for a living tree, 119 00:07:17,433 --> 00:07:21,000 which they'll decorate and then plant at home. 120 00:07:21,066 --> 00:07:24,033 Maddy: That the right size? Yeah...OK. 121 00:07:24,100 --> 00:07:25,666 Paul: You think it would look good with the fairy on top? 122 00:07:25,733 --> 00:07:26,933 Maddy: Brilliant. I like it. 123 00:07:27,000 --> 00:07:29,466 It's a new twist on an old tradition, 124 00:07:29,533 --> 00:07:31,133 with a wink to the nature-worshipping pagans 125 00:07:31,200 --> 00:07:33,433 who once haunted these parts. 126 00:07:36,433 --> 00:07:38,566 Decorating with greens goes back to the druids 127 00:07:38,633 --> 00:07:41,666 who adorned their temples with swags of evergreen. 128 00:07:41,733 --> 00:07:44,266 For pagans, living greens in the dead of winter 129 00:07:44,333 --> 00:07:47,500 represented the persistence of life. 130 00:07:47,566 --> 00:07:49,366 And for Christians, evergreens are a reminder 131 00:07:49,433 --> 00:07:52,500 of the gift of everlasting life. 132 00:07:52,566 --> 00:07:55,333 During this hectic season, 133 00:07:55,400 --> 00:07:56,666 getting together to bake Christmas goodies 134 00:07:56,733 --> 00:07:58,766 while the little ones decorate edible ornaments, 135 00:07:58,833 --> 00:08:02,200 is a fine way for busy mums to enjoy some time together. 136 00:08:03,633 --> 00:08:05,266 Maddy's recipe for mince pies 137 00:08:05,333 --> 00:08:07,733 harkens back to the days of Henry VIII. 138 00:08:07,800 --> 00:08:10,733 Back then, the dried fruits, spices, and shredded meat 139 00:08:10,800 --> 00:08:12,700 for the filling were so expensive 140 00:08:12,766 --> 00:08:16,033 that only the wealthy could afford to make a mince pie. 141 00:08:16,100 --> 00:08:18,266 According to tradition, 12 pies should be eaten 142 00:08:18,333 --> 00:08:20,400 during the 12 days of Christmas 143 00:08:20,466 --> 00:08:23,700 to ensure good luck each month of the coming year. 144 00:08:23,766 --> 00:08:26,000 Woman: Don't let me forget those mince pies, Maddy. 145 00:08:26,066 --> 00:08:28,933 But it's the Christmas pudding that's the real centerpiece 146 00:08:29,000 --> 00:08:30,566 of a traditional English holiday meal. 147 00:08:31,700 --> 00:08:34,266 ♪ Now bring us some figgy pudding. ♪ 148 00:08:34,333 --> 00:08:37,400 ♪ Now bring us some figgy pudding. ♪ 149 00:08:37,466 --> 00:08:40,433 ♪ Now bring us some figgy pudding. ♪ 150 00:08:40,500 --> 00:08:43,833 ♪ Now bring some out here. ♪♪ 151 00:08:43,900 --> 00:08:45,900 Put this one up here. 152 00:08:45,966 --> 00:08:47,500 Like a lot of us, 153 00:08:47,566 --> 00:08:49,400 Maddy and Paul are opting for a simpler, 154 00:08:49,466 --> 00:08:51,533 less commercial style of Christmas, 155 00:08:51,600 --> 00:08:54,866 and that's reflected in their family traditions. 156 00:08:54,933 --> 00:08:57,400 Little Theos and Leilas wouldn't always have been 157 00:08:57,466 --> 00:08:59,233 so involved in the family activities. 158 00:08:59,300 --> 00:09:00,900 Childhood as we know it really began 159 00:09:00,966 --> 00:09:04,266 in 19th-century England with the new middle class. 160 00:09:04,333 --> 00:09:06,633 And at Christmas those stern Victorians 161 00:09:06,700 --> 00:09:09,866 gave themselves permission to indulge their children. 162 00:09:09,933 --> 00:09:11,500 [ Talks indistinctly ] 163 00:09:11,566 --> 00:09:14,300 The English tradition of caroling starts very young. 164 00:09:14,366 --> 00:09:17,200 We're visiting Theo's school as the students take center-stage 165 00:09:17,266 --> 00:09:19,366 at the 14th-century village church 166 00:09:19,433 --> 00:09:21,166 for a very special Christmas concert. 167 00:09:24,500 --> 00:09:27,300 ♪ ...here we go off to Bethlehem ♪ 168 00:09:27,366 --> 00:09:31,500 ♪ on a cold and frosty morning ♪ 169 00:09:31,566 --> 00:09:33,800 ♪ We're going to be taxed in Bethlehem, ♪ 170 00:09:33,866 --> 00:09:36,400 ♪ Bethlehem, Bethlehem ♪ 171 00:09:36,466 --> 00:09:38,966 ♪ We're going to be taxed in Bethlehem ♪ 172 00:09:39,033 --> 00:09:42,466 ♪ on a cold and frosty morning ♪ 173 00:09:42,533 --> 00:09:45,133 ♪ There is no place in Bethlehem, ♪ 174 00:09:45,200 --> 00:09:47,800 ♪ Bethlehem, Bethlehem ♪ 175 00:09:47,866 --> 00:09:50,700 ♪ There is no place to Bethlehem ♪ 176 00:09:50,766 --> 00:09:54,933 ♪ on a cold and frosty morning ♪♪ 177 00:09:55,000 --> 00:09:56,533 [ Applause ] 178 00:10:02,900 --> 00:10:04,566 [ Children singing "Jingle Bells" ] 179 00:10:04,633 --> 00:10:05,466 Christmas is drawing near, 180 00:10:05,533 --> 00:10:07,100 and tonight these lucky kids 181 00:10:07,166 --> 00:10:09,100 are taking a train through the woods 182 00:10:09,166 --> 00:10:10,566 to meet Santa, 183 00:10:10,633 --> 00:10:13,433 or as the English know him, Father Christmas. 184 00:10:13,500 --> 00:10:14,666 Father Christmas: Come on in now. 185 00:10:14,733 --> 00:10:16,566 Come on in and stand just there. 186 00:10:16,633 --> 00:10:18,333 And you stand just there. 187 00:10:18,400 --> 00:10:20,166 You come across there. That's right. 188 00:10:20,233 --> 00:10:21,566 Tell me your names. 189 00:10:21,633 --> 00:10:23,166 Now, what's your name? 190 00:10:23,233 --> 00:10:24,533 Dillon. Hello. 191 00:10:24,600 --> 00:10:25,866 What's your name? 192 00:10:25,933 --> 00:10:26,900 Kate. 193 00:10:26,966 --> 00:10:28,000 And what's your name? 194 00:10:28,066 --> 00:10:29,800 Jack. 195 00:10:29,866 --> 00:10:31,500 Well done! Now then, most important. 196 00:10:31,566 --> 00:10:33,733 What do you want for Christmas? 197 00:10:33,800 --> 00:10:35,566 I don't know. 198 00:10:35,633 --> 00:10:37,000 Just some surprises. 199 00:10:37,066 --> 00:10:39,133 I'm very good at surprises. 200 00:10:39,200 --> 00:10:41,566 And what do you want? 201 00:10:41,633 --> 00:10:44,800 Well, I haven't written my list out yet. 202 00:10:44,866 --> 00:10:46,900 So we're going to wait for your list, 203 00:10:46,966 --> 00:10:48,766 and when it comes, I'll be ready for it. 204 00:10:48,833 --> 00:10:51,666 Now, are you going to do something for me? 205 00:10:51,733 --> 00:10:54,333 Are you going to leave me something out on Christmas Eve? 206 00:10:54,400 --> 00:10:55,533 Child: Yes! 207 00:10:55,600 --> 00:10:57,433 What are you going to leave me? 208 00:10:57,500 --> 00:10:58,900 Mince pies and wine! 209 00:10:58,966 --> 00:11:01,533 And are you going to leave a carrot for the reindeer? 210 00:11:01,600 --> 00:11:02,966 Yeah. Yes! 211 00:11:03,033 --> 00:11:05,200 We'll check back with Theo and Leila 212 00:11:05,266 --> 00:11:08,400 on Christmas Eve. 213 00:11:11,566 --> 00:11:13,333 While children on their best behavior 214 00:11:13,400 --> 00:11:14,833 ask Santa for the toy of their dreams, 215 00:11:14,900 --> 00:11:17,633 my wish right now is a chance to hear 216 00:11:17,700 --> 00:11:19,100 one of finest chamber choirs in England, 217 00:11:19,166 --> 00:11:21,066 the Sixteen, 218 00:11:21,133 --> 00:11:24,033 filling a church with timeless sounds of the season. 219 00:11:24,100 --> 00:11:27,733 Woman soloist: ♪ the holly and the ivy ♪ 220 00:11:27,800 --> 00:11:30,800 ♪ trees that's both well-known ♪ 221 00:11:30,866 --> 00:11:33,500 ♪ of all the trees that grows in woods ♪ 222 00:11:33,566 --> 00:11:37,000 ♪ the holly bears the crown ♪ 223 00:11:37,066 --> 00:11:40,333 Chorus: ♪ the rising of the sun ♪ 224 00:11:40,400 --> 00:11:43,400 ♪ the running of the deer ♪ 225 00:11:43,466 --> 00:11:46,600 ♪ the playing of the merry harp ♪ 226 00:11:46,666 --> 00:11:51,633 ♪ sweet singing in the choir ♪ 227 00:11:51,700 --> 00:11:55,366 Male soloist: ♪ the holly bears a bark ♪ 228 00:11:55,433 --> 00:11:58,400 ♪ as bitter as any gall ♪ 229 00:11:58,466 --> 00:12:01,233 ♪ and Mary bore sweet Jesus Christ ♪ 230 00:12:01,300 --> 00:12:04,966 ♪ for to redeem us all ♪ 231 00:12:05,033 --> 00:12:08,300 Chorus: ♪ the rising of the sun ♪ 232 00:12:08,366 --> 00:12:11,633 ♪ the running of the deer ♪ 233 00:12:11,700 --> 00:12:14,400 ♪ the playing of the merry harp ♪ 234 00:12:14,466 --> 00:12:20,000 ♪ sweet singing in the choir ♪ 235 00:12:20,066 --> 00:12:23,233 Woman soloist: ♪ the holly and the ivy ♪ 236 00:12:23,300 --> 00:12:26,300 ♪ trees that's both well-known ♪ 237 00:12:26,366 --> 00:12:29,500 ♪ of all the trees that grows in woods ♪ 238 00:12:29,566 --> 00:12:32,700 ♪ the holly bears the crown ♪ 239 00:12:32,766 --> 00:12:36,333 Chorus: ♪ the rising of the sun ♪ 240 00:12:36,400 --> 00:12:38,900 ♪ the running of the deer ♪ 241 00:12:38,966 --> 00:12:42,333 ♪ the playing of the merry harp ♪ 242 00:12:42,400 --> 00:12:49,000 ♪ sweet singing in the choir ♪♪ 243 00:12:49,066 --> 00:12:52,566 Leaving the tranquility of the English countryside behind, 244 00:12:52,633 --> 00:12:55,633 London offers Christmas fun fit for a queen 245 00:12:55,700 --> 00:12:58,566 and streets twinkling with joy. 246 00:13:12,400 --> 00:13:14,133 There's magic in the air. 247 00:13:14,200 --> 00:13:17,466 Or...is that snow? 248 00:13:17,533 --> 00:13:20,366 Here in Trafalgar Square, in the heart of the city, 249 00:13:20,433 --> 00:13:24,100 a winter wonderland has been created just for the day. 250 00:13:24,166 --> 00:13:28,066 [ Exclaiming ] 251 00:13:28,133 --> 00:13:29,533 [ Laughing ] 252 00:13:32,433 --> 00:13:34,833 It's a lovely snowy day, isn't it? 253 00:13:34,900 --> 00:13:37,266 Father Christmas has dropped by for the wintry fun, 254 00:13:37,333 --> 00:13:40,266 and London's town crier is in fine form 255 00:13:40,333 --> 00:13:42,566 as he passes out mince pies and holiday cheer. 256 00:13:48,033 --> 00:13:50,533 Nearby at Somerset House, once a grand palace, 257 00:13:50,600 --> 00:13:52,233 the courtyard has been transformed 258 00:13:52,300 --> 00:13:53,866 into an ice-skating rink, 259 00:13:53,933 --> 00:13:57,400 elegant enough to make a commoner feel like royalty. 260 00:14:09,800 --> 00:14:12,366 At Covent Garden, shoppers can find classic toys for tots 261 00:14:12,433 --> 00:14:14,433 at Benjamin Pollock's famous toy shop, 262 00:14:14,500 --> 00:14:17,500 in business since the 1880s. 263 00:14:25,433 --> 00:14:27,666 The joy and peace of the Christmas season 264 00:14:27,733 --> 00:14:31,100 bring both people and countries together. 265 00:14:31,166 --> 00:14:33,733 This giant spruce, a gift from the citizens of Oslo, 266 00:14:33,800 --> 00:14:36,033 is a reminder of the friendship 267 00:14:36,100 --> 00:14:39,766 forged between Britain and Norway during World War II. 268 00:14:39,833 --> 00:14:43,566 And Norway is where we're headed next. 269 00:14:43,633 --> 00:14:45,600 Here in small-town Norway, 270 00:14:45,666 --> 00:14:47,633 Christmas is celebrated with a unique intimacy 271 00:14:47,700 --> 00:14:50,800 and a Scandinavian flair for community. 272 00:14:50,866 --> 00:14:54,066 We're in Drobak, about an hour south of Oslo. 273 00:14:54,133 --> 00:14:56,233 While it's Norway's self-proclaimed 274 00:14:56,300 --> 00:14:57,733 capital of Christmas, 275 00:14:57,800 --> 00:15:02,833 Drobak feels like any idyllic town on a fjord. 276 00:15:02,900 --> 00:15:05,066 It's Santa Lucia Day, December 13th, 277 00:15:05,133 --> 00:15:07,133 one of the darkest days of winter 278 00:15:07,200 --> 00:15:11,666 and an important part of the Scandinavian Christmas season. 279 00:15:11,733 --> 00:15:14,500 All over Nordic Europe, little candle-bearing Santa Lucias 280 00:15:14,566 --> 00:15:16,766 are bringing light to the middle of winter 281 00:15:16,833 --> 00:15:20,733 and the promise of the return of summer. 282 00:15:20,800 --> 00:15:22,433 These processions are led by a young Lucia 283 00:15:22,500 --> 00:15:24,866 wearing a crown of lights. 284 00:15:24,933 --> 00:15:27,333 [ Children singing "Santa Lucia" in Norwegian ] 285 00:15:32,433 --> 00:15:36,200 ♪ ...Santa Lucia ♪ 286 00:15:36,266 --> 00:15:40,066 ♪ Santa Lucia ♪♪ 287 00:15:40,133 --> 00:15:41,633 [ Applause ] 288 00:15:41,700 --> 00:15:43,700 This home has housed widows and seniors 289 00:15:43,766 --> 00:15:47,000 for over 200 years, and today the kindergarteners 290 00:15:47,066 --> 00:15:50,433 are bringing on the light in more ways than one. 291 00:15:50,500 --> 00:15:52,400 The children have baked the traditional 292 00:15:52,466 --> 00:15:53,700 Santa Lucia saffron buns -- 293 00:15:53,766 --> 00:15:56,033 the same ones these seniors baked 294 00:15:56,100 --> 00:15:58,500 when they were kindergarteners. 295 00:15:58,566 --> 00:16:00,600 Taking their cue from Santa Lucia, 296 00:16:00,666 --> 00:16:02,533 Norwegians, cozy in their homes, 297 00:16:02,600 --> 00:16:04,733 brighten their long, dark winters 298 00:16:04,800 --> 00:16:06,633 with lots of candles, 299 00:16:06,700 --> 00:16:09,100 white lights -- you'll never see a colored one-- 300 00:16:09,166 --> 00:16:12,600 and lots of greenery. 301 00:16:12,666 --> 00:16:14,533 In Norway, as in the rest of Europe, 302 00:16:14,600 --> 00:16:16,733 pagan symbols -- like the evergreen tree -- 303 00:16:16,800 --> 00:16:19,733 survive disguised as Christmas traditions. 304 00:16:19,800 --> 00:16:22,766 The same is true with this sprig of mistletoe. 305 00:16:22,833 --> 00:16:24,400 In Scandinavia, 306 00:16:24,466 --> 00:16:26,633 it's associated with the Viking goddess of love. 307 00:16:26,700 --> 00:16:28,833 For Celtic people, it was a sacred plant. 308 00:16:28,900 --> 00:16:31,200 They used it to heal the sick and enhance fertility. 309 00:16:31,266 --> 00:16:33,466 For most of us, it's just a handy excuse 310 00:16:33,533 --> 00:16:35,666 to steal a little Christmas kiss. 311 00:16:35,733 --> 00:16:39,500 Oh, that's a mistletoe. Mmmm. 312 00:16:39,566 --> 00:16:40,800 The Norwegian spirit of Christmas 313 00:16:40,866 --> 00:16:42,466 extends even to the departed. 314 00:16:42,533 --> 00:16:44,600 Candles flicker in graveyards 315 00:16:44,666 --> 00:16:47,200 as families remember lost loved ones. 316 00:16:47,266 --> 00:16:49,033 And all over Norway, 317 00:16:49,100 --> 00:16:51,600 communities gather together in churches just like this 318 00:16:51,666 --> 00:16:54,933 as choirs cap Santa Lucia Day with a concert. 319 00:16:55,000 --> 00:16:58,033 [ Choir singing "Angels We Have Heard on High" ] 320 00:16:58,100 --> 00:17:04,200 ♪ ...glo...ria... ♪ 321 00:17:04,266 --> 00:17:13,800 ♪ In excelsis deo ♪♪ 322 00:17:13,866 --> 00:17:17,566 And as the congregation follows the Santa Lucias out, 323 00:17:17,633 --> 00:17:19,233 more light of Christmas 324 00:17:19,300 --> 00:17:22,200 spills into this little fjord-side community. 325 00:17:22,266 --> 00:17:25,400 [ Choir singing "Santa Lucia" in Norwegian ] 326 00:17:46,333 --> 00:17:49,200 ♪ ...Santa Lucia ♪ 327 00:17:49,266 --> 00:17:52,000 ♪ Santa Lucia ♪♪ 328 00:17:54,100 --> 00:17:57,000 A common theme across cultures is a legendary gift giver -- 329 00:17:57,066 --> 00:18:00,666 not always fat and jolly -- who kids butter up with treats. 330 00:18:00,733 --> 00:18:03,233 While I grew up leaving Santa Claus milk and cookies 331 00:18:03,300 --> 00:18:05,033 by the fireplace, 332 00:18:05,100 --> 00:18:08,166 the kids here leave a bowl of porridge out by the barn 333 00:18:08,233 --> 00:18:09,900 for the Julenisse. 334 00:18:09,966 --> 00:18:12,500 These mischievous elves-from-the-forest 335 00:18:12,566 --> 00:18:14,833 visit each Christmas, not on reindeer, 336 00:18:14,900 --> 00:18:17,200 but with a horse, pig, and mouse entourage 337 00:18:17,266 --> 00:18:19,233 and a bag of gifts. 338 00:18:19,300 --> 00:18:20,466 Every good child knows 339 00:18:20,533 --> 00:18:25,066 the Julenisse is coming with an exciting reward. 340 00:18:25,133 --> 00:18:27,633 Just up the fjord, Norway's capital, Oslo, 341 00:18:27,700 --> 00:18:30,433 celebrates Christmas with a more urban charm. 342 00:18:31,866 --> 00:18:33,666 Streets are decorated, 343 00:18:33,733 --> 00:18:36,133 locals not ready to rely on the Julenisse, 344 00:18:36,200 --> 00:18:38,433 are out shopping, 345 00:18:38,500 --> 00:18:40,166 and good cheer is abundant. 346 00:18:40,233 --> 00:18:42,633 [ Shrieking ] 347 00:18:42,700 --> 00:18:45,000 Christmas in Oslo feels low-key. 348 00:18:45,066 --> 00:18:47,966 You'll find it best not on the streets or in the malls, 349 00:18:48,033 --> 00:18:54,000 but in the homes, with friends and in music. 350 00:18:54,066 --> 00:18:56,266 Youthful voices fill the city's oldest church. 351 00:18:56,333 --> 00:18:58,166 The old Aker Church, 352 00:18:58,233 --> 00:18:59,800 which dates back to the 12th century, 353 00:18:59,866 --> 00:19:02,233 hosts the Norwegian Girls' Choir 354 00:19:02,300 --> 00:19:03,733 for an Advent concert. 355 00:19:03,800 --> 00:19:05,533 [ Choir singing carol in Norwegian ] 356 00:20:16,200 --> 00:20:23,166 ♪ ...in excelsis deo ♪♪ 357 00:20:23,233 --> 00:20:24,600 [ Loud applause ] 358 00:20:33,866 --> 00:20:37,666 We'll check back with the Santa Lucias and the Julenisse later. 359 00:20:37,733 --> 00:20:40,800 And while Norway awaits the return of the sun, 360 00:20:40,866 --> 00:20:43,300 further south, Paris creates its own light. 361 00:20:46,833 --> 00:20:49,200 Paris is nicknamed Europe's "City of Light" 362 00:20:49,266 --> 00:20:55,133 for its incandescent energy and effervescent culture. 363 00:20:55,200 --> 00:20:57,333 In the dark of winter, the city's best-loved icon, 364 00:20:57,400 --> 00:20:58,866 the Eiffel Tower, 365 00:20:58,933 --> 00:21:01,866 brilliantly heralds this happy season. 366 00:21:01,933 --> 00:21:04,133 By night, Paris' biggest department stores 367 00:21:04,200 --> 00:21:05,933 dress up the streets. 368 00:21:06,000 --> 00:21:08,933 Printemps is pretty in pink, and the Galeries Lafayette 369 00:21:09,000 --> 00:21:11,900 has woven an exquisite embroidery of lights. 370 00:21:11,966 --> 00:21:14,166 And all along the Champs-Elysées, 371 00:21:14,233 --> 00:21:19,466 it's a festive forest of 2,000 twinkling trees. 372 00:21:19,533 --> 00:21:23,233 [ Bells chiming ] 373 00:21:23,300 --> 00:21:25,566 By day, the signs of Christmas are more subtle 374 00:21:25,633 --> 00:21:29,566 but can be found everywhere. 375 00:21:29,633 --> 00:21:30,433 The best-dressed trees are seen here 376 00:21:30,500 --> 00:21:33,300 in the Pompidou Center. 377 00:21:33,366 --> 00:21:34,933 Where else but in Paris 378 00:21:35,000 --> 00:21:37,200 will you find avant-garde Christmas trees 379 00:21:37,266 --> 00:21:38,766 making a fashion statement? 380 00:21:41,833 --> 00:21:44,900 With visions of Versace dancing in their heads, 381 00:21:44,966 --> 00:21:47,100 inspired fashionistas can bundle up their wish lists 382 00:21:47,166 --> 00:21:51,933 and head to the designer boutiques on the Rue Royale. 383 00:21:54,000 --> 00:21:56,800 Christmas in Paris is elegantly understated, 384 00:21:56,866 --> 00:21:59,200 and the city yields unexpected moments. 385 00:21:59,266 --> 00:22:00,766 Turn a corner, and you just might find yourself 386 00:22:00,833 --> 00:22:04,133 in a stylish arcade all wrapped up in red. 387 00:22:09,100 --> 00:22:12,266 Busy Parisian shoppers fuel up on the city's street food: 388 00:22:12,333 --> 00:22:14,766 Steamy crêpes... 389 00:22:16,433 --> 00:22:19,533 and hot roasted chestnuts. 390 00:22:19,600 --> 00:22:20,866 Man: Joyeux Noel! 391 00:22:22,966 --> 00:22:25,066 And neighborhood brasseries are full of friends 392 00:22:25,133 --> 00:22:28,500 slurping fresh oysters rushed in from the Brittany coast. 393 00:22:34,000 --> 00:22:35,433 Oysters are favorites at Christmas, 394 00:22:35,500 --> 00:22:36,900 which makes perfect sense 395 00:22:36,966 --> 00:22:39,833 as they're plump and delicious this time of year. 396 00:22:42,833 --> 00:22:45,533 'Tis also the season of elegant edibles. 397 00:22:48,866 --> 00:22:50,933 Foie gras, a pâté made from goose liver 398 00:22:51,000 --> 00:22:52,633 and a smidge of cognac, 399 00:22:52,700 --> 00:22:54,400 is especially popular during holidays. 400 00:22:57,833 --> 00:22:59,600 And chocolate shops and patisseries -- 401 00:22:59,666 --> 00:23:01,366 wonderful any time of year -- 402 00:23:01,433 --> 00:23:04,200 get even better at Christmas. 403 00:23:04,266 --> 00:23:05,366 There are chocolate chestnuts... 404 00:23:07,066 --> 00:23:09,366 Yummy yule logs... 405 00:23:09,433 --> 00:23:11,166 And delights fit for a king. 406 00:23:14,466 --> 00:23:15,833 Even sophisticated Paris 407 00:23:15,900 --> 00:23:18,700 rolls out the magic carpet for children. 408 00:23:18,766 --> 00:23:20,333 French families from all over the country 409 00:23:20,400 --> 00:23:24,100 rendezvous at the windows of the grand department stores. 410 00:23:24,166 --> 00:23:26,000 Displays are especially designed 411 00:23:26,066 --> 00:23:29,333 to enchant the little ones. 412 00:23:29,400 --> 00:23:32,233 And stools provided by thoughtful stores 413 00:23:32,300 --> 00:23:35,600 make sure that even the tiniest tot enjoys a good view. 414 00:23:41,066 --> 00:23:42,766 During Christmas, the Eiffel tower 415 00:23:42,833 --> 00:23:45,900 becomes the highest ice-skating rink in Paris. 416 00:23:50,066 --> 00:23:53,933 Kids ride ponies at Luxembourg Gardens... 417 00:23:54,000 --> 00:23:55,700 And the city's magical Manèges de Noel, 418 00:23:55,766 --> 00:23:56,500 the carousels of Christmas, 419 00:23:56,566 --> 00:23:57,933 spin memories. 420 00:24:00,500 --> 00:24:02,300 A clear, cold day brings out Parisians, 421 00:24:02,366 --> 00:24:04,633 trying to soak up as much sunlight as possible 422 00:24:04,700 --> 00:24:07,233 on these, the shortest days of the year, 423 00:24:07,300 --> 00:24:08,833 while a dusting of snow 424 00:24:08,900 --> 00:24:10,300 brings out hopes for a white Christmas, 425 00:24:10,366 --> 00:24:14,300 like at home. 426 00:24:14,366 --> 00:24:16,833 Whether you're young or just young at heart, 427 00:24:16,900 --> 00:24:19,966 Christmas in Paris is the stuff of dreams. 428 00:24:24,233 --> 00:24:27,266 If Paris is a grandam strutting her Christmas finery, 429 00:24:27,333 --> 00:24:29,566 then Burgundy, where we're heading next, 430 00:24:29,633 --> 00:24:31,733 is her pious country cousin. 431 00:24:31,800 --> 00:24:35,133 [ Choir singing in French ] 432 00:24:35,200 --> 00:24:37,633 Burgundy lies in the quiet, religious heart 433 00:24:37,700 --> 00:24:39,900 of this mostly secular nation. 434 00:24:39,966 --> 00:24:42,433 France's most venerable abbeys are here, 435 00:24:42,500 --> 00:24:44,833 and their spirit seems to animate the small villages 436 00:24:44,900 --> 00:24:48,166 throughout the region. 437 00:24:48,233 --> 00:24:50,300 Ancient traditions survive comfortably here. 438 00:24:50,366 --> 00:24:51,333 This 13th-century abbey 439 00:24:51,400 --> 00:24:53,466 resonates with the rich sounds 440 00:24:53,533 --> 00:24:55,433 of the French group Phonema, 441 00:24:55,500 --> 00:24:57,100 singing medieval carols 442 00:24:57,166 --> 00:24:59,600 just as they were sung centuries ago. 443 00:24:59,666 --> 00:25:01,833 [ Singing continues ] 444 00:25:56,133 --> 00:25:58,066 A sense of community runs strong in rural France, 445 00:25:58,133 --> 00:26:00,800 and it expresses itself in simple rituals 446 00:26:00,866 --> 00:26:02,833 shared by families and friends. 447 00:26:03,933 --> 00:26:06,433 In Burgundy, no one goes without. 448 00:26:06,500 --> 00:26:09,166 Communities take good care of one another year-round, 449 00:26:09,233 --> 00:26:11,666 with special treats at Christmas. 450 00:26:11,733 --> 00:26:14,666 This amiable village mayor, accompanied by her entourage, 451 00:26:14,733 --> 00:26:16,366 gets into the spirit of things 452 00:26:16,433 --> 00:26:19,133 by delivering baskets of delicacies to the elderly 453 00:26:19,200 --> 00:26:21,833 for the Christmas Eve feast. 454 00:26:24,533 --> 00:26:26,633 [ Both speaking French ] 455 00:26:39,100 --> 00:26:41,100 This morning my friends the Berteloots 456 00:26:41,166 --> 00:26:43,700 are shopping for seasonal fare at the Saturday market. 457 00:26:43,766 --> 00:26:45,266 [ Speaking French ] 458 00:26:47,766 --> 00:26:51,033 [ Speaking French ] 459 00:26:51,100 --> 00:26:53,800 Fine food's at the center of life in Burgundy, 460 00:26:53,866 --> 00:26:54,633 even in the dead of winter. 461 00:26:57,433 --> 00:26:59,566 Right about now the truffles are at their pungent best. 462 00:26:59,633 --> 00:27:01,233 [ All speaking French ] 463 00:27:03,166 --> 00:27:05,433 Delphine and Emmanuel prepare for the 464 00:27:05,500 --> 00:27:07,666 grandest culinary event of the year. 465 00:27:07,733 --> 00:27:09,566 The French call their Christmas Eve feast 466 00:27:09,633 --> 00:27:12,200 "Le réveillon de Noel." 467 00:27:15,766 --> 00:27:17,000 [ Speaks French ] 468 00:27:22,133 --> 00:27:23,833 At home the family's busy preparing for the big event. 469 00:27:24,866 --> 00:27:25,800 The children are decorating candles 470 00:27:25,866 --> 00:27:27,033 to set on the windowsill on Christmas eve 471 00:27:27,100 --> 00:27:29,133 to light up the dark on that night 472 00:27:29,200 --> 00:27:31,100 so filled with anticipation. 473 00:27:33,566 --> 00:27:35,666 [ Speaking French ] 474 00:27:35,733 --> 00:27:39,533 [ Speaking French ] 475 00:27:39,600 --> 00:27:43,766 And the tree's not quite done until capped with a star. 476 00:27:43,833 --> 00:27:46,066 [ Both speak French ] 477 00:27:46,133 --> 00:27:49,000 In the kitchen, Delphine slices her foie gras... 478 00:27:52,766 --> 00:27:56,200 Then devotes herself to the centerpiece of the réveillon: 479 00:27:56,266 --> 00:27:59,333 Filet of beef wrapped in brioche. 480 00:27:59,400 --> 00:28:04,066 Stretching the pastry is a two-person job. 481 00:28:04,133 --> 00:28:06,766 After generously grating local truffles 482 00:28:06,833 --> 00:28:08,366 the beef is tenderly wrapped 483 00:28:08,433 --> 00:28:10,600 and ready for the oven. 484 00:28:16,266 --> 00:28:19,066 And there's still the serious business 485 00:28:19,133 --> 00:28:20,533 of selecting the perfect wine from the cellar. 486 00:28:22,800 --> 00:28:24,600 Soon guests will be arriving. 487 00:28:24,666 --> 00:28:26,066 This time of year, when the days 488 00:28:26,133 --> 00:28:27,633 are short and the nights are long, 489 00:28:27,700 --> 00:28:29,033 it's customary to leave a welcoming light 490 00:28:29,100 --> 00:28:30,133 in the window. 491 00:28:32,033 --> 00:28:33,866 We'll be back when dinner's ready. 492 00:28:33,933 --> 00:28:35,500 But first, we've got some shopping to do...in Germany. 493 00:28:36,700 --> 00:28:38,666 When it comes to traditional holiday images, 494 00:28:38,733 --> 00:28:40,766 Germany's Bavaria is the heartland. 495 00:28:40,833 --> 00:28:43,333 Here we'll savor classic holiday themes: 496 00:28:43,400 --> 00:28:45,433 Glittering trees, old-time carols, 497 00:28:45,500 --> 00:28:46,900 and colorful Christmas markets. 498 00:28:49,233 --> 00:28:51,933 These markets, called Christkindl markets, 499 00:28:52,000 --> 00:28:53,400 enliven squares throughout Germany. 500 00:28:55,666 --> 00:28:57,000 The most famous is here in Nuernberg. 501 00:29:00,666 --> 00:29:02,200 It's a festive swirl 502 00:29:02,266 --> 00:29:03,766 of the heartwarming sights, sounds, 503 00:29:03,833 --> 00:29:04,933 and smells of Christmas. 504 00:29:14,133 --> 00:29:16,333 Long a center of toy making in Germany, 505 00:29:16,400 --> 00:29:19,966 a woody and traditional ambiance prevails. 506 00:29:20,033 --> 00:29:22,433 Nutcrackers are characters of authority: 507 00:29:22,500 --> 00:29:24,633 Uniformed, strong-jawed, 508 00:29:24,700 --> 00:29:26,300 and able to crack the tough nuts. 509 00:29:28,800 --> 00:29:31,400 Smokers, with their fragrant incense wafting, 510 00:29:31,466 --> 00:29:33,733 feature common folk like this village toy maker. 511 00:29:36,466 --> 00:29:37,766 Prune people, with their fig body, 512 00:29:37,833 --> 00:29:40,433 walnut head, and prune limbs, 513 00:29:40,500 --> 00:29:43,000 are dolled up in Bavarian folk costumes. 514 00:29:44,466 --> 00:29:47,533 And hovering above it all is the golden Rausch angel, 515 00:29:47,600 --> 00:29:50,466 an icon of Christmas in Nuernberg. 516 00:29:50,533 --> 00:29:53,533 "Rausch" is the sound of wind blowing through its wings. 517 00:29:53,600 --> 00:29:56,633 It's a favorite for capping family Christmas trees. 518 00:29:56,700 --> 00:29:59,000 Bakeries crank out old-fashioned gingerbread -- 519 00:29:59,066 --> 00:30:00,866 the Lebkuchen Nuernberg -- 520 00:30:00,933 --> 00:30:03,466 using the original 17th-century recipe. 521 00:30:06,466 --> 00:30:07,900 Back then, 522 00:30:07,966 --> 00:30:10,466 Nuernberg was the gingerbread capital of the world, 523 00:30:10,533 --> 00:30:13,433 and its love affair with gingerbread lives on. 524 00:30:13,500 --> 00:30:16,466 Shoppers can also munch the famous Nuernberg bratwurst, 525 00:30:16,533 --> 00:30:18,566 skinny as your little finger... 526 00:30:18,633 --> 00:30:21,133 And sip hot spiced wine. 527 00:30:22,500 --> 00:30:25,166 As in so many cultures, 528 00:30:25,233 --> 00:30:28,100 kids love their local version of Santa Claus. 529 00:30:28,166 --> 00:30:30,100 While Santa is a legend, 530 00:30:30,166 --> 00:30:32,366 his character is based on St. Nicholas, 531 00:30:32,433 --> 00:30:34,733 a kind and generous bishop 532 00:30:34,800 --> 00:30:36,466 who actually lived in Turkey in the 4th century. 533 00:30:37,400 --> 00:30:38,466 Holiday gift-giving, 534 00:30:38,533 --> 00:30:40,933 especially in Catholic regions, 535 00:30:41,000 --> 00:30:43,833 is often associated with the feast day of St. Nicholas, 536 00:30:43,900 --> 00:30:46,700 December 6th. 537 00:30:46,766 --> 00:30:48,966 But Germany is Luther country. 538 00:30:49,033 --> 00:30:51,833 Back in the early 1500s, the Great Reformer, Martin Luther, 539 00:30:51,900 --> 00:30:53,500 wanted to humanize the Christmas story 540 00:30:53,566 --> 00:30:55,566 by shifting the focus away from the saints 541 00:30:55,633 --> 00:30:57,933 and back onto the birthday boy: Jesus. 542 00:30:58,000 --> 00:30:59,933 Rather than jolly old St. Nick 543 00:31:00,000 --> 00:31:01,333 bringing the goodies on December 6th, 544 00:31:01,400 --> 00:31:03,366 Luther established the idea 545 00:31:03,433 --> 00:31:05,766 that gifts would be given on the 25th 546 00:31:05,833 --> 00:31:09,000 by the Christ child or, in German, "Christkind." 547 00:31:09,066 --> 00:31:10,500 [ Speaking German ] 548 00:31:10,566 --> 00:31:13,100 [ Laughing ] 549 00:31:13,166 --> 00:31:14,966 But for kids, it was hard to imagine 550 00:31:15,033 --> 00:31:16,633 the little baby in the manger delivering gifts, 551 00:31:16,700 --> 00:31:18,433 so an angel served 552 00:31:18,500 --> 00:31:20,566 as the gift-giving Christ child. 553 00:31:20,633 --> 00:31:22,266 And somehow the angel came to be 554 00:31:22,333 --> 00:31:24,333 represented by a young girl. 555 00:31:24,400 --> 00:31:26,133 She spends her reign spreading 556 00:31:26,200 --> 00:31:28,333 the joy of the season. 557 00:31:28,400 --> 00:31:30,100 The Christkind concludes by 558 00:31:30,166 --> 00:31:31,466 telling the enthralled children, 559 00:31:31,533 --> 00:31:33,533 "if you're very, very gentle, 560 00:31:33,600 --> 00:31:37,200 you can touch my wings." 561 00:31:37,266 --> 00:31:38,833 Nuernberg's favorite angel then leads her fans 562 00:31:38,900 --> 00:31:40,766 into the children's section of the market 563 00:31:40,833 --> 00:31:42,533 where expertly bundled kids 564 00:31:42,600 --> 00:31:44,833 enjoy a Christmas wonderland. 565 00:31:44,900 --> 00:31:53,200 [ Children shouting ] 566 00:31:57,466 --> 00:32:00,166 Now we cross the border into Austria 567 00:32:00,233 --> 00:32:01,600 to the town that to me always feels like Christmas: 568 00:32:01,666 --> 00:32:03,066 Salzburg. 569 00:32:04,900 --> 00:32:07,166 With its old town gathered under its formidable castle, 570 00:32:07,233 --> 00:32:08,500 Salzburg celebrates the holidays 571 00:32:08,566 --> 00:32:12,300 with an Alpine elegance. 572 00:32:12,366 --> 00:32:14,666 [ Horseshoes clopping ] 573 00:32:17,300 --> 00:32:19,800 Christmas-y shopping lanes delight browsers. 574 00:32:25,300 --> 00:32:27,000 Markets are busy 575 00:32:27,066 --> 00:32:28,933 as shoppers gather last-minute holiday decorations 576 00:32:29,000 --> 00:32:30,800 and perhaps a fresh sprig of mistletoe. 577 00:32:33,100 --> 00:32:34,800 [ Gunshots ] 578 00:32:36,433 --> 00:32:38,233 These Tiroleans celebrate the season 579 00:32:38,300 --> 00:32:39,300 in noisier fashions, as well. 580 00:32:39,366 --> 00:32:41,500 [ Gunshot ] 581 00:32:41,566 --> 00:32:43,466 From the castle ramparts, high above town, 582 00:32:43,533 --> 00:32:46,400 traditional gunners fire away 583 00:32:46,466 --> 00:32:48,500 as they have since the days when they really believed 584 00:32:48,566 --> 00:32:51,533 these shots would scare away evil spirits. 585 00:32:51,600 --> 00:32:56,433 [ Gunshots ] 586 00:32:56,500 --> 00:32:58,733 Salzburg, nicknamed "the Rome of the North," 587 00:32:58,800 --> 00:33:00,300 has a magnificent cathedral 588 00:33:00,366 --> 00:33:02,866 inspired by St. Peter's at the Vatican. 589 00:33:02,933 --> 00:33:05,933 Locals here in the town of Mozart pack the place 590 00:33:06,000 --> 00:33:08,800 to mix worship with glorious music. 591 00:33:08,866 --> 00:33:11,666 [ Orchestra playing; Choir singing ] 592 00:33:52,700 --> 00:33:55,700 [ Bells chiming "Silent Night" ] 593 00:33:57,566 --> 00:33:59,633 It was here, in the region of Salzburg 594 00:33:59,700 --> 00:34:01,766 that the most-loved carol of the Christmas season, 595 00:34:01,833 --> 00:34:04,166 "Silent Night," was sung for the first time 596 00:34:04,233 --> 00:34:06,166 nearly 200 years ago. 597 00:34:09,466 --> 00:34:11,400 According to legend, a local priest 598 00:34:11,466 --> 00:34:13,433 went out one Christmas night to bless a newborn baby. 599 00:34:13,500 --> 00:34:15,200 As he walked home in the snow, 600 00:34:15,266 --> 00:34:16,900 he was so moved by the stillness 601 00:34:16,966 --> 00:34:18,566 of the starlit and holy night 602 00:34:18,633 --> 00:34:19,866 that he wrote a poem about it. 603 00:34:19,933 --> 00:34:21,666 He gave the poem to Franz Gruber, 604 00:34:21,733 --> 00:34:25,133 the organist in his church, who composed a simple tune. 605 00:34:25,200 --> 00:34:26,433 On Christmas Eve, 1818, 606 00:34:26,500 --> 00:34:28,666 the carol was sung for the first time 607 00:34:28,733 --> 00:34:31,700 accompanied only by a guitar. 608 00:34:31,766 --> 00:34:33,800 [ Plucks introductory notes ] 609 00:34:35,900 --> 00:34:40,733 Both: ♪ stille nacht ♪ 610 00:34:40,800 --> 00:34:46,366 ♪ heilige nacht ♪ 611 00:34:46,433 --> 00:34:50,300 ♪ alles schlaeft...♪ 612 00:34:52,866 --> 00:34:55,200 Austria is one of Europe's more traditional corners. 613 00:34:55,266 --> 00:34:57,200 Its strong Catholicism and a love of heritage 614 00:34:57,266 --> 00:34:58,933 shine especially brightly 615 00:34:59,000 --> 00:35:01,733 at Christmastime in the countryside. 616 00:35:01,800 --> 00:35:07,266 ♪ ...hochheilige Paar ♪ 617 00:35:07,333 --> 00:35:12,633 ♪ holder knabe ♪ 618 00:35:12,700 --> 00:35:19,133 ♪ im lockigen haar ♪ 619 00:35:19,200 --> 00:35:21,833 We're visiting the Weissacher family farm. 620 00:35:21,900 --> 00:35:25,100 - "Frohe Weihnachten! Kommt herein, bitte." 621 00:35:25,166 --> 00:35:26,900 This family happily shares its love of the season 622 00:35:26,966 --> 00:35:28,466 with a guest. 623 00:35:29,800 --> 00:35:31,700 Like just about anywhere, 624 00:35:31,766 --> 00:35:34,200 part of Christmas is making cookies with grandma. 625 00:35:45,533 --> 00:35:48,166 More unique to Austria is this ritual 626 00:35:48,233 --> 00:35:50,500 in which the dad blesses the home with incense 627 00:35:50,566 --> 00:35:54,666 as his daughter follows with holy water. 628 00:35:54,733 --> 00:35:58,300 The prayer is for a healthy and happy new year. 629 00:36:00,533 --> 00:36:02,300 Maria teaches her daughters how the advent wreath 630 00:36:02,366 --> 00:36:04,466 marks the four weeks of Advent: 631 00:36:04,533 --> 00:36:06,166 The season of preparation 632 00:36:06,233 --> 00:36:09,466 leading to the advent, or arrival, of Jesus. 633 00:36:09,533 --> 00:36:12,766 Ancient peoples were the first wreath makers. 634 00:36:12,833 --> 00:36:14,566 For Christians, that evergreen circle 635 00:36:14,633 --> 00:36:17,300 came to symbolize everlasting life. 636 00:36:17,366 --> 00:36:19,200 The candles, one for each week, 637 00:36:19,266 --> 00:36:21,566 reminded them that the birth of their Savior 638 00:36:21,633 --> 00:36:24,233 was approaching. 639 00:36:24,300 --> 00:36:27,333 Austrians lovingly decorate their tree, 640 00:36:27,400 --> 00:36:30,033 but keep it secret and hidden from the children 641 00:36:30,100 --> 00:36:32,733 until December 24th arrives. 642 00:36:32,800 --> 00:36:34,766 We'll check back a little later to see what Christmas brings. 643 00:36:38,066 --> 00:36:39,766 From here in the Alps, we journey to a grand city 644 00:36:39,833 --> 00:36:41,966 that was the capital of the Western world 645 00:36:42,033 --> 00:36:44,533 on that first Christmas 2,000 years ago 646 00:36:44,600 --> 00:36:47,133 and remains a leading city in Christendom today: 647 00:36:53,300 --> 00:36:56,100 Rome. This is home of the Vatican City, 648 00:36:56,166 --> 00:36:58,633 headquarters of the Roman Catholic church 649 00:36:58,700 --> 00:37:02,166 and some of Europe's most sacred Christmas traditions. 650 00:37:05,033 --> 00:37:06,666 For centuries, pilgrims have hiked 651 00:37:06,733 --> 00:37:10,933 from all over Christendom to this great city. 652 00:37:11,000 --> 00:37:13,500 Domes and ancient obelisks still serve as markers, 653 00:37:13,566 --> 00:37:16,333 lacing together relics and sacred stops... 654 00:37:18,433 --> 00:37:21,400 Including the tomb of St. Peter, 655 00:37:21,466 --> 00:37:23,266 marked by the greatest dome anywhere. 656 00:37:25,700 --> 00:37:28,166 And through the ages, pilgrims have stopped here 657 00:37:28,233 --> 00:37:31,366 at the Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore. 658 00:37:31,433 --> 00:37:33,766 The faithful believe the original planks 659 00:37:33,833 --> 00:37:38,066 from Jesus' crib are in this ornate container. 660 00:37:38,133 --> 00:37:40,366 And here in the capital of Catholicism, 661 00:37:40,433 --> 00:37:43,200 each Christmas, lovingly constructed manger scenes, 662 00:37:43,266 --> 00:37:47,200 called "presepi," pop up all over town. 663 00:37:47,266 --> 00:37:49,233 St. Francis of Assisi is credited with assembling 664 00:37:49,300 --> 00:37:52,266 the first manger scene in 1223. 665 00:37:52,333 --> 00:37:55,133 He used it as a tool to teach people 666 00:37:55,200 --> 00:37:56,833 the story of the first Christmas. 667 00:37:56,900 --> 00:37:59,566 Since then, in the creative teaching style of St. Francis, 668 00:37:59,633 --> 00:38:04,166 manger scenes often put Bethlehem in a local context. 669 00:38:04,233 --> 00:38:06,500 Instead of the Middle East, Italians have long set 670 00:38:06,566 --> 00:38:10,500 the Holy Family right here in Italian settings. 671 00:38:10,566 --> 00:38:12,900 St. Francis knew that by putting Jesus in a place 672 00:38:12,966 --> 00:38:15,500 people would recognize -- their own neighborhood -- 673 00:38:15,566 --> 00:38:17,566 the faithful could relate more easily 674 00:38:17,633 --> 00:38:19,833 to the story of His birth. 675 00:38:28,500 --> 00:38:30,633 And presepi range from the very traditional 676 00:38:30,700 --> 00:38:32,533 to the very surprising, 677 00:38:32,600 --> 00:38:34,666 like this one that imagines the Nativity 678 00:38:34,733 --> 00:38:37,733 in an Eskimo village. 679 00:38:40,266 --> 00:38:41,666 The ultimate manger scene is 680 00:38:41,733 --> 00:38:44,566 back on Rome's ultimate square. 681 00:38:44,633 --> 00:38:46,900 St. Peter's is where the pope celebrates midnight mass 682 00:38:46,966 --> 00:38:49,100 each Christmas Eve. 683 00:38:54,433 --> 00:38:56,133 For Roman families 684 00:38:56,200 --> 00:38:58,600 there are more than just manger scenes to see. 685 00:38:58,666 --> 00:39:00,500 For centuries this lively square, Piazza Navona, 686 00:39:00,566 --> 00:39:03,500 has hosted a boisterous village-like holiday market 687 00:39:03,566 --> 00:39:06,166 that stays busy until Epiphany in January. 688 00:39:13,066 --> 00:39:14,500 The Christmas season in Europe 689 00:39:14,566 --> 00:39:16,100 stretches for well over a month, 690 00:39:16,166 --> 00:39:17,600 not to maximize shopping days, 691 00:39:17,666 --> 00:39:20,600 but to fit in the season's many holy days. 692 00:39:20,666 --> 00:39:23,066 Advent starts four Sundays before Christmas Eve. 693 00:39:23,133 --> 00:39:25,900 Then comes the feast of St. Nicholas on December 6th. 694 00:39:25,966 --> 00:39:28,266 Santa Lucia Day is on the 13th, 695 00:39:28,333 --> 00:39:30,566 and Europeans don't wrap things up on the 25th. 696 00:39:30,633 --> 00:39:33,733 The 12 days of Christmas stretch from the 25th 697 00:39:33,800 --> 00:39:36,033 through January 6th. That's Epiphany, 698 00:39:36,100 --> 00:39:39,666 the day the three kings finally delivered the gifts. 699 00:39:39,733 --> 00:39:41,866 In Italy on Epiphany, La Befana, a popular Christmas witch, 700 00:39:41,933 --> 00:39:44,633 flies over the rooftops 701 00:39:44,700 --> 00:39:48,400 filling children's stockings with candy...or coal. 702 00:39:48,466 --> 00:39:50,766 Between visiting their manger scenes 703 00:39:50,833 --> 00:39:52,366 and Christmas witches, 704 00:39:52,433 --> 00:39:55,266 many Italians are shopping for their big Christmas eve dinner. 705 00:39:55,333 --> 00:39:56,666 [ Shouts in Italian ] 706 00:39:56,733 --> 00:39:57,933 When it comes to a festa, 707 00:39:58,000 --> 00:40:00,066 Italians like to buy fresh and local, 708 00:40:00,133 --> 00:40:02,300 and lucky Romans enjoy 709 00:40:02,366 --> 00:40:06,033 an abundance of farmers markets. 710 00:40:06,100 --> 00:40:08,633 La vigilia, the traditional Christmas Eve dinner, 711 00:40:08,700 --> 00:40:10,400 calls for all the trimmings. 712 00:40:10,466 --> 00:40:12,433 Here in Rome, that's lots of veggies 713 00:40:12,500 --> 00:40:16,600 and a nice big female eel. 714 00:40:20,300 --> 00:40:21,900 As anywhere, 715 00:40:21,966 --> 00:40:24,300 Christmas in Rome is a time of giving. 716 00:40:24,366 --> 00:40:26,100 The spirit of charity is especially 717 00:40:26,166 --> 00:40:27,900 alive in this neighborhood, 718 00:40:27,966 --> 00:40:30,166 which has come together for a special holiday meal. 719 00:40:32,300 --> 00:40:34,533 At the church of Santa Maria in Trastevere, 720 00:40:34,600 --> 00:40:37,000 tables have replaced pews 721 00:40:37,066 --> 00:40:39,166 and the poor are enjoying a feast 722 00:40:39,233 --> 00:40:41,266 prepared and served by the community. 723 00:40:41,333 --> 00:40:44,866 It's a joyful occasion, and by all accounts 724 00:40:44,933 --> 00:40:48,800 those doing the giving feel as blessed as those they feed. 725 00:41:07,333 --> 00:41:09,400 Outside of Rome, 726 00:41:09,466 --> 00:41:11,766 in villages in regions such as Tuscany, 727 00:41:11,833 --> 00:41:14,600 Christmas celebrations are a little more rustic. 728 00:41:14,666 --> 00:41:18,500 The festivities, while low-key, are memorable. 729 00:41:18,566 --> 00:41:21,466 During a busy season that sometimes feels overwhelming, 730 00:41:21,533 --> 00:41:24,200 village life can be refreshingly simple. 731 00:41:24,266 --> 00:41:26,433 These jovial friends are playing an old game. 732 00:41:26,500 --> 00:41:28,300 The idea is to toss the 733 00:41:28,366 --> 00:41:30,000 panforte, the local fruitcake, 734 00:41:30,066 --> 00:41:31,600 close to the edge of the table 735 00:41:31,666 --> 00:41:34,233 without having it slide off. 736 00:41:34,300 --> 00:41:37,200 [ All talking in Italian ] 737 00:41:42,633 --> 00:41:44,666 [ All exclaim ] 738 00:41:51,733 --> 00:41:57,266 [ Woman calls to child ] 739 00:41:57,333 --> 00:41:58,266 These children are flip-flopping 740 00:41:58,333 --> 00:41:59,700 the gift-giving tradition. 741 00:41:59,766 --> 00:42:00,866 Woman: Grazie! 742 00:42:00,933 --> 00:42:03,433 Boy: Buon Natale. 743 00:42:03,500 --> 00:42:05,500 They're delivering another Christmas treat, panettone, 744 00:42:05,566 --> 00:42:07,966 a rich brioche made with raisins and citrus, 745 00:42:08,033 --> 00:42:10,233 to older folks who have no family nearby. 746 00:42:11,366 --> 00:42:14,033 Woman: Buon Natale! 747 00:42:14,100 --> 00:42:16,800 While providing a bright spot in this grandma's day, 748 00:42:16,866 --> 00:42:23,233 the child experiences the joy of giving. 749 00:42:23,300 --> 00:42:25,833 Woman: Buon Natale! 750 00:42:25,900 --> 00:42:28,800 And today the children have another important errand. 751 00:42:28,866 --> 00:42:31,900 It's time to post their letters to Babbo Natale, 752 00:42:31,966 --> 00:42:34,000 the Italian version of Santa Claus. 753 00:42:34,066 --> 00:42:35,600 This special mailbox 754 00:42:35,666 --> 00:42:39,333 mysteriously appears each Christmas. 755 00:42:40,800 --> 00:42:44,166 [ Men singing Gregorian chant ] 756 00:42:44,233 --> 00:42:48,200 Sacred music and prayer infuse this tranquil landscape. 757 00:42:48,266 --> 00:42:51,933 Here at the 15th-century abbey of Monte Oliveto Maggiore, 758 00:42:52,000 --> 00:42:53,933 reclusive monks celebrate their faith 759 00:42:54,000 --> 00:42:55,833 in a timeless fashion 760 00:42:55,900 --> 00:42:59,566 as if one with the communities they serve. 761 00:42:59,633 --> 00:43:01,600 [ Chanting continues ] 762 00:43:36,100 --> 00:43:37,333 And in this town, 763 00:43:37,400 --> 00:43:38,766 the people are doing a dress rehearsal 764 00:43:38,833 --> 00:43:43,933 for a "presepio vivente," or living nativity. 765 00:43:46,166 --> 00:43:48,366 On Christmas Eve in this simple cloister 766 00:43:48,433 --> 00:43:50,966 they'll recreate the town of Bethlehem 767 00:43:51,033 --> 00:43:53,400 on that holiest of nights. 768 00:43:53,466 --> 00:43:56,766 Monks: ♪ Amen ♪♪ 769 00:43:58,600 --> 00:44:00,333 In the countryside, 770 00:44:00,400 --> 00:44:03,600 you'll appreciate how sacred traditions have deep roots. 771 00:44:03,666 --> 00:44:05,700 Here in this medieval Tuscan hill town, 772 00:44:05,766 --> 00:44:10,133 villagers stack neat pyramids of wood for great bonfires. 773 00:44:10,200 --> 00:44:12,566 The lighting of the fires is a signal to villagers, 774 00:44:12,633 --> 00:44:16,466 dressed as shepherds, to come and sing old carols. 775 00:44:17,666 --> 00:44:21,433 [ All singing in Italian ] 776 00:44:26,300 --> 00:44:28,466 It's a reminder that through the ages 777 00:44:28,533 --> 00:44:31,500 Italy's humble shepherds entertained the faithful 778 00:44:31,566 --> 00:44:34,500 as they gathered by fires to warm themselves 779 00:44:34,566 --> 00:44:37,000 and await the arrival of Christmas. 780 00:44:37,066 --> 00:44:39,166 [ Singing continues ] 781 00:44:50,033 --> 00:44:51,500 While Italy has the rich history, 782 00:44:51,566 --> 00:44:54,233 magnificent manger scenes, and grand churches, 783 00:44:54,300 --> 00:44:56,366 the spirit of Christmas can be experienced 784 00:44:56,433 --> 00:44:57,766 everywhere in Europe. 785 00:44:59,100 --> 00:45:01,466 High in Switzerland, where the churches are small 786 00:45:01,533 --> 00:45:03,733 and villages huddle below towering peaks, 787 00:45:03,800 --> 00:45:06,966 the mighty Alps seem to shout the glory of God. 788 00:45:07,033 --> 00:45:09,100 Up here, Christmas fills a wintry wonderland 789 00:45:09,166 --> 00:45:10,266 with good cheer. 790 00:45:10,333 --> 00:45:14,233 [ Bells clanging ] 791 00:45:14,300 --> 00:45:15,933 In these villages, traditions are strong, 792 00:45:16,000 --> 00:45:18,366 [ clanging continues louder ] 793 00:45:22,166 --> 00:45:23,900 And warmth is a priority. 794 00:45:23,966 --> 00:45:26,066 Ovens are small so wood is, too. 795 00:45:33,633 --> 00:45:37,066 My family has arrived for a Swiss Alps Christmas. 796 00:45:37,133 --> 00:45:39,200 Along with our kids, Andy and Jackie, 797 00:45:39,266 --> 00:45:41,033 my wife, Anne, has joined me here 798 00:45:41,100 --> 00:45:43,066 in the tiny village of Gimmelwald 799 00:45:43,133 --> 00:45:44,433 where we're having some fun 800 00:45:44,500 --> 00:45:47,400 with our friends Olle and Maria and their kids. 801 00:45:47,466 --> 00:45:49,633 [ Shrieks and laughter ] 802 00:45:54,533 --> 00:45:55,900 Yahoo! 803 00:45:55,966 --> 00:45:59,133 Hoo! Hoo-hoo! 804 00:45:59,200 --> 00:46:00,200 Whoo! 805 00:46:08,100 --> 00:46:10,466 Olle is taking us high above his village 806 00:46:10,533 --> 00:46:15,366 on a quest to find and cut the perfect Christmas tree. 807 00:46:26,966 --> 00:46:29,000 Ollie: What do you think? Andy (offscreen): I like it a lot. 808 00:46:29,066 --> 00:46:30,533 Yeah, this is a good tree. I think we should cut it. 809 00:46:38,533 --> 00:46:41,900 [ Various people exclaiming ] 810 00:46:50,700 --> 00:46:52,966 [ Indistinct talking and laughter ] 811 00:46:54,566 --> 00:46:56,366 Still high above Gimmelwald, 812 00:46:56,433 --> 00:46:59,666 we're stopping in a hut for a little fondue. 813 00:46:59,733 --> 00:47:02,000 - Anne: We've got the tree. - Jackie: Yes! 814 00:47:02,066 --> 00:47:03,900 Olle: That was quite a bit of work. 815 00:47:03,966 --> 00:47:05,900 Rick: This feels just right in the winter, doesn't it? 816 00:47:05,966 --> 00:47:08,900 Maria: When it's cold outside, it's perfect. 817 00:47:08,966 --> 00:47:11,700 "Figugegl" means, um... 818 00:47:11,766 --> 00:47:13,466 "Fondue isch guet und git e gueti Lune" 819 00:47:13,533 --> 00:47:16,666 And it means in English "fondue is delicious 820 00:47:16,733 --> 00:47:19,066 and gives a good mood." 821 00:47:19,133 --> 00:47:20,600 Rick: So if you have a party, it's going to be -- 822 00:47:20,666 --> 00:47:22,933 Maria: Yes, everybody knows what "figugegl" means. 823 00:47:23,000 --> 00:47:24,833 Rick: If there's fondue, it'll be a good ambience. 824 00:47:24,900 --> 00:47:27,366 Maria: Yes. [ All laugh ] 825 00:47:27,433 --> 00:47:30,033 It's impossible not to linger in this cozy setting. 826 00:47:30,100 --> 00:47:31,166 Before we know it, 827 00:47:31,233 --> 00:47:33,966 the light outside begins to fade. 828 00:47:34,033 --> 00:47:35,366 Rick: Here's to a happy Christmas. 829 00:47:35,433 --> 00:47:37,633 Cheers! 830 00:47:37,700 --> 00:47:39,500 [ All laugh ] 831 00:47:45,100 --> 00:47:47,400 As the sun sets, we've got our tree 832 00:47:47,466 --> 00:47:50,933 and take an unforgettable ride home to Gimmelwald. 833 00:48:00,566 --> 00:48:04,033 [ Laughing, shrieking ] 834 00:48:28,200 --> 00:48:32,466 Back in the village, the kids take the tree home, 835 00:48:32,533 --> 00:48:36,566 and we've been invited to enjoy another Christmas tradition. 836 00:48:36,633 --> 00:48:39,666 While I grew up opening windows on a paper Advent calendar, 837 00:48:39,733 --> 00:48:42,866 up here the windows are real. 838 00:48:42,933 --> 00:48:48,400 25 homes decorate a window for each day of Advent. 839 00:48:48,466 --> 00:48:51,033 The sense of anticipation is the same 840 00:48:51,100 --> 00:48:53,566 as, day by day, Christmas approaches. 841 00:48:53,633 --> 00:48:55,900 [ Bells jingling, sheep bleating ] 842 00:49:01,366 --> 00:49:03,500 Advent is all about anticipation. 843 00:49:03,566 --> 00:49:05,600 And for the kids, much of that anticipation 844 00:49:05,666 --> 00:49:07,333 is about presents: 845 00:49:07,400 --> 00:49:10,000 Rewards for being not naughty, but nice. 846 00:49:10,066 --> 00:49:11,366 And as we've seen, throughout Europe 847 00:49:11,433 --> 00:49:14,600 each culture seems to have its own version of Santa Claus, 848 00:49:14,666 --> 00:49:16,300 who serves parents 849 00:49:16,366 --> 00:49:20,300 by providing children incentives for good behavior. 850 00:49:20,366 --> 00:49:22,333 Here in the Alps, it's Samichlaus -- 851 00:49:22,400 --> 00:49:24,133 that's Swiss-German for "St. Nicolas" -- 852 00:49:24,200 --> 00:49:26,733 and his sidekick, Schmutzli. 853 00:49:26,800 --> 00:49:30,366 My son, Andy, is playing Samichlaus this year. 854 00:49:30,433 --> 00:49:33,233 Olle's son, Sven, is playing Schmutzli. 855 00:49:33,300 --> 00:49:36,433 And the donkey is playing himself. 856 00:49:36,500 --> 00:49:38,733 Each year, Gimmelwald's children anticipate a visit 857 00:49:38,800 --> 00:49:41,166 from this dynamic Christmas duo. 858 00:49:41,233 --> 00:49:43,466 Samichlaus surprises the children 859 00:49:43,533 --> 00:49:44,733 and checks in his ledger 860 00:49:44,800 --> 00:49:47,166 to see if they've been doing their chores. 861 00:49:47,233 --> 00:49:48,600 Have you been feeding the cows lately? 862 00:49:48,666 --> 00:49:50,333 [ Speaks Swiss-German ] 863 00:49:50,400 --> 00:49:53,533 Then he might ask for song or a poem. 864 00:49:53,600 --> 00:49:55,733 Samichlaus: What would you like to sing? 865 00:49:55,800 --> 00:49:57,900 [ Sings in Swiss-German ] 866 00:50:07,366 --> 00:50:10,100 And the performance is always followed by a treat 867 00:50:10,166 --> 00:50:12,000 from his big bag of gifts. 868 00:50:12,066 --> 00:50:13,666 I hope you have a merry Christmas. 869 00:50:13,733 --> 00:50:15,000 Frohe Weihnachten! 870 00:50:15,066 --> 00:50:16,433 See you next year. 871 00:50:16,500 --> 00:50:18,733 Bye. 872 00:50:18,800 --> 00:50:21,533 [ Everybody laughing ] 873 00:50:21,600 --> 00:50:24,066 Mission accomplished, and it's time for dinner. 874 00:50:24,133 --> 00:50:26,800 Back home, Grandma and Grandpa have joined the gang 875 00:50:26,866 --> 00:50:30,300 as we settle into a classic Swiss Christmas Eve. 876 00:50:32,566 --> 00:50:33,933 After dinner, both our families gather in the living room. 877 00:50:36,200 --> 00:50:38,133 Lighting the candles is a treat 878 00:50:38,200 --> 00:50:41,233 our children will always remember. 879 00:50:47,766 --> 00:50:50,066 [ Man reading in German ] 880 00:50:50,133 --> 00:50:51,733 Three generations come together 881 00:50:51,800 --> 00:50:54,533 as Grandpa reads from the old family Bible. 882 00:50:54,600 --> 00:50:58,266 [ Continues reading in German ] 883 00:51:12,933 --> 00:51:16,000 The evening's capped off with the sharing of gifts. 884 00:51:16,066 --> 00:51:18,000 [ Exclamations, appreciative comments ] 885 00:51:41,466 --> 00:51:43,266 Christmas Eve is finally here, and right about now, 886 00:51:43,333 --> 00:51:45,066 all across Europe, 887 00:51:45,133 --> 00:51:47,700 our friends are celebrating this long-anticipated night 888 00:51:47,766 --> 00:51:50,833 in their own unique ways. 889 00:51:50,900 --> 00:51:53,666 Down the chimney St. Nicholas came with a bound... 890 00:51:53,733 --> 00:51:55,600 In England, the family snuggles together, 891 00:51:55,666 --> 00:51:57,700 anticipating the arrival of Father Christmas. 892 00:51:59,233 --> 00:52:02,500 [ Crowd singing carol ] 893 00:52:02,566 --> 00:52:05,066 Up in Norway, they're joining hands in song. 894 00:52:05,133 --> 00:52:07,766 "Joyeux Noel!" 895 00:52:07,833 --> 00:52:10,600 In Burgundy, a toast starts the réveillon. 896 00:52:10,666 --> 00:52:13,133 And Delphine's beef is finally done. 897 00:52:13,200 --> 00:52:15,333 [ Exclamations and applause ] 898 00:52:18,733 --> 00:52:20,600 In Austria, the children discover 899 00:52:20,666 --> 00:52:23,333 what their grandparents have been hiding from them. 900 00:52:26,066 --> 00:52:27,566 Final touches are made 901 00:52:27,633 --> 00:52:30,300 to the Bethlehem being created in Tuscany. 902 00:52:30,366 --> 00:52:32,633 [ Bell pealing ] 903 00:52:32,700 --> 00:52:35,633 And at the Vatican, people pack St. Peter's, 904 00:52:35,700 --> 00:52:37,533 as millions around the world 905 00:52:37,600 --> 00:52:42,766 share a sacred and glorious Midnight Mass. 906 00:52:42,833 --> 00:52:44,900 ♪ all seem to say throw cares away ♪ 907 00:52:44,966 --> 00:52:46,866 ♪ Christmas is here bringing good cheer ♪ 908 00:52:46,933 --> 00:52:49,700 ♪ to young and old, meek and the bold ♪ 909 00:52:49,766 --> 00:52:52,333 ♪ ding, dong, ding, dong, that is the song ♪ 910 00:52:52,400 --> 00:52:54,866 ♪ with joyful ring, all caroling ♪ 911 00:52:54,933 --> 00:52:56,966 ♪ one seems to hear words of good cheer ♪ 912 00:52:57,033 --> 00:52:59,166 ♪ from everywhere filling the air ♪ 913 00:52:59,233 --> 00:53:01,766 ♪ oh, how they pound, raising the sound ♪ 914 00:53:01,833 --> 00:53:04,066 ♪ o'er hill and dale, telling their tale ♪ 915 00:53:04,133 --> 00:53:06,433 ♪ gaily they ring, while people sing ♪ 916 00:53:06,500 --> 00:53:08,933 ♪ songs of good cheer, Christmas is here ♪ 917 00:53:09,000 --> 00:53:11,566 ♪ merry, merry, merry, merry Christmas ♪ 918 00:53:11,633 --> 00:53:13,733 ♪ merry, merry, merry, merry Christmas ♪ 919 00:53:13,800 --> 00:53:15,700 ♪ Christmas is here bringing good cheer ♪ 920 00:53:15,766 --> 00:53:18,000 ♪ to young and old, meek and the bold ♪ 921 00:53:18,066 --> 00:53:20,766 ♪ ding, dong, ding, dong, that is the song ♪ 922 00:53:20,833 --> 00:53:22,866 ♪ with joyful ring, all caroling ♪ 923 00:53:22,933 --> 00:53:25,800 ♪ one seems to hear words of good cheer ♪ 924 00:53:25,866 --> 00:53:27,900 ♪ from everywhere filling the air ♪ 925 00:53:27,966 --> 00:53:30,266 ♪ oh, how they pound, raising the sound ♪ 926 00:53:30,333 --> 00:53:32,866 ♪ o'er hill and dale, telling their tale ♪ 927 00:53:32,933 --> 00:53:34,933 ♪ gaily they ring, while people sing ♪ 928 00:53:35,000 --> 00:53:37,600 ♪ songs of good cheer, Christmas is here ♪ 929 00:53:37,666 --> 00:53:39,966 ♪ merry, merry, merry, merry Christmas ♪ 930 00:53:40,033 --> 00:53:41,733 ♪ merry, merry, merry, merry Christmas ♪ 931 00:53:41,800 --> 00:53:44,466 ♪ on, on they send on without end ♪ 932 00:53:44,533 --> 00:53:47,266 ♪ their joyful tone to every home ♪ 933 00:53:47,333 --> 00:53:49,700 ♪ on, on they send on without end ♪ 934 00:53:49,766 --> 00:53:54,100 ♪ their joyful tone to every home ♪♪ 935 00:53:54,166 --> 00:53:56,766 And as Christmas Day dawns, 936 00:53:56,833 --> 00:54:00,466 a joyful chorus heralds the birth of Jesus. 937 00:54:00,533 --> 00:54:01,700 [ Loud chorus of bells pealing ] 938 00:54:19,300 --> 00:54:21,133 [ Bells fade away ] 939 00:54:24,833 --> 00:54:26,400 Happy Christmas! 940 00:54:26,466 --> 00:54:27,933 Joyeux Noel! 941 00:54:28,000 --> 00:54:30,100 Schoene Weihnachten! 942 00:54:30,166 --> 00:54:32,333 Buon Natale a tutti! 943 00:54:32,400 --> 00:54:34,433 God Jul! 944 00:54:34,500 --> 00:54:35,933 Merry Christmas! 945 00:54:36,000 --> 00:54:38,100 Froehliche Weihnachten! 946 00:54:38,166 --> 00:54:39,800 Joyeux Noel! 947 00:54:39,866 --> 00:54:41,666 Happy Christmas! 948 00:54:41,733 --> 00:54:44,166 Ho, ho, ho, Frohe Weihnachten! 949 00:54:44,233 --> 00:54:46,866 All: God Jul! 950 00:54:46,933 --> 00:54:48,600 [ Bell clanging ] 951 00:54:48,666 --> 00:54:50,766 Oyez! Oyez! 952 00:54:50,833 --> 00:54:55,366 I wish you all a very merry Christmas!