Written By: Diane Hoppenjans, Ferdinand Tourism Commission Board Member
Ferdinand’s new holiday feature, a German-made Christmas Pyramid, is the fourth U.S. outdoor pyramid to be built by Ergzebirgische Holzkunst Gahlenz of Germany. Showcasing the town’s rich German heritage throughout the Christmas season, it will stand on a raised knoll of land north of the Historic Wollenmann Home on Main Street in Ferdinand throughout the Christmas season, enhancing the holiday spirit displayed at Ferdinand’s annual Ferdinand Christkindlmarkt and beyond. Known in Germany as Weihnachtspyramiden, these traditional decorations have roots in the Ergzebirge region of Germany and feature rotating scenes of Christmas and everyday life.
Ferdinand’s Christmas pyramid will feature 4 tiers on top of a gazebo. Displaying traditional figures carved in Germany such as the Nativity scene and angels trumpeting, historical figures will also be showcased and will serve as a festive celebration of the town’s history, its German heritage, and the holiday season. An audio presentation, available by way of a QR code, will share the story of how a missionary priest from Croatia came to found the town in 1840 hoping to establish a German Catholic community in the primeval forests of Southern Indiana.
With loads of Christmas spirit, local shops offering unique gifts and personalized shopping, warm and inviting dining experiences, custom kraft breweries, and historic sites to visit, discover Ferdinand and Dubois County in Southern Indiana for a special holiday experience.
The Christmas Pyramid will stand from November 2 – January 2 for all to enjoy!
Note: The 28th annual Ferdinand Christkindlmarkt takes place November 15-16. With over 200 booths in six market locations throughout town, the Ferdinand Christkindlmarkt is held the third full weekend in November annually. The free shuttle service between market sites will include a stop at the pyramid at 1150 Main Street that weekend.
A Dubois County Christmas
Also, be sure to check out other holiday celebrations to extend your visit to Ferdinand and experience a Dubois County Christmas anytime during the Holiday season!