Christmas pyramids had their roots in the Erzgebirge (Ore Mountains), a mining region in the eastern part of Germany. When the mining industry lost importance, the people of the region decided to use their woodworking skills to start a new trade. Today, the skilled craftsmen of the Erzgebirge manufacture internationally collected Christmas pyramids, nutcrackers, smokers, candle arches, music boxes and many other wooden figurines.
Traditional Christmas pyramids are wooden carousel-like structures that have several levels depicting Christmas motifs, such as angels, nutcrackers and manger scenes. The rotating motion of the pyramids is traditionally achieved by the rising heat from candles spinning the propeller at the top of the pyramid. Christmas pyramids are popular in homes across Germany and now in many parts of the United States.
Today In many cities and towns in Germany, large-scale outdoor Christmas pyramids powered by electricity are located at the Marktplatz or other locations associated with Christmas celebrations. Nodding to its German heritage, Fredericksburg’s 26 foot tall Christmas pyramid will be located at the Marktplatz, or the town square at the heart of town on Main Street. As has been the tradition for many years, all of the buildings along Main Street in Fredericksburg’s historic district will be outlined with white lights, and new five foot Christmas wreaths will adorn utility poles along Main Street.