Einschulung (First Day of School)

In the history of mankind you can find many major inventions - such as the creation of the wheel and the light bulb - but there are also small ones like the Zuckertuete (literally, "sugar bag" or "candy bag"). This is a German tradition played out every September at the start of the school year. The First Day of School, Einschulung, is a very special event in Germany that symbolizes the importance of a child's formal education. The Zuckertuete - a special cone-shaped container that is about three feet tall filled with candy, toys and school supplies - is a gift from the parents to their children so they feel special on this important day.

The history of the Zuckertuete

To offer American children something special on their first day of school, surprise them with a ZuckertueteZuckertuete

Here are some fun things to put in the bags: crayons, erasers, watches, yo-yos, hair clips, gum and stuffed toys. And as is the German tradition, fill the Zuckertuete

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Guide to German Food