The Rauhnächte

In the south of Germany and across the Alps, the twelve nights between Christmas and Epiphany have a name of their own: the Rauhnächte. Old stories call it the time between the years, when the days seem to stand still and the world feels a little quieter.

Families would tidy the house before Christmas, burn herbs like juniper or sage to clear the air, leave the laundry for later and pay close attention to their dreams. Each of the twelve nights was said to hold a hint for one month of the year ahead.

Sarah grew up in Franconia with these stories, on long winter walks through the forest with her mum and the dogs, and with her granddad, who knew every plant and mushroom along the way. Wherever we are in the world, we still keep these nights.

Once the kids are asleep, we make a pot of tea, light a candle and put the phones away (apart from the evening message). Ten or twenty minutes is enough. Some nights we write, some nights we just sit with the question and talk it through together.

By January 6 there is a quiet clarity about what we want to carry into the new year, and what we are ready to leave behind.

The Rauhnächte are just for you. Our Rewilding Advent Calendar is for the whole family: 24 little doors from December 1 to 24, each with a tiny nature ritual, story or small adventure instead of chocolate.

You can add it at checkout for just $12 instead of $22.

When does it start?
The first evening is December 24. A new message arrives each evening until January 6.

What if I miss a night?
No problem. Everything stays in the channel, so you can catch up whenever there is a quiet moment.

Do I need Telegram?
Yes, it’s a free app for your phone or computer. You’ll get your private invite link right after booking.

Who is it for?
Mums, dads and anyone raising little ones who wants to end the year a little slower and more intentionally. No experience needed.

When do bookings close?
Bookings close on December 20.