Ulm sticks to the traditional live nativity scene despite criticism of animal welfare!

Ulm sticks to the traditional live nativity scene despite criticism of animal welfare!

The Ulm Christmas market is a real highlight in the run-up to Christmas and will also have reason to be happy in 2025, because the live nativity scene will continue to be part of the festive events. The supervisory board of the Ulm-Messe made this decision, despite emerging protests from animal protection associations. The live nativity scene, which has been one of the market's attractions for almost 30 years, offers visitors of all ages a magical backdrop and, along with the majestic Christmas tree, is the centerpiece of the event. Loud tagesschau.de The market days continue to be accompanied by the presence of donkeys and sheep, which are set up together with wooden figures of Mary, Joseph and little Jesus.

Mayor Martin Ansbacher (SPD) supports maintaining the living nativity scene and sees it as an indispensable part of Ulm's tradition. He emphasizes that in Ulm there is a balance between tradition and animal protection. The city has already taken numerous measures to ensure the welfare of the animals. These include spacious stables and supervision by trained staff who carry out regular veterinary examinations. A study by the University of Vienna made it clear that the animals at the Christmas market did not suffer any pain or lasting stress, which earned the city a positive verdict.

Protests and criticisms

Despite these measures, voices against the living nativity scene remain loud. Animal protection groups such as PETA strongly criticize the decision and accuse those responsible of using the animals as “props”. Julia Stubenbord, the state animal protection officer, believes that it is no longer appropriate to display animals in a public place. This opinion is also shared by other animal protection organizations who have expressed their dissatisfaction through letters and demonstrations in various cities such as Stuttgart and Esslingen. While Ulm is sticking to tradition, cities like Reutlingen have already given up live nativity scenes and only offer life-size wooden figures in order to take animal welfare into account.

At the Ulm Minster Square, the animals spend about a month in a specially created area that is lined with sufficient straw and sawdust-like material. Jürgen Eilts, managing director of Ulm-Messe, emphasizes that everything was done for the welfare of the animals, including the provision of heated watering troughs and sufficient light to provide the animals with a comfortable environment.

A living tradition

The Ulm Christmas market is one of the largest and busiest markets in Baden-Württemberg and attracts thousands of visitors every year. The atmosphere is characterized by local handicrafts and culinary delicacies, which contributes to the cultural diversity of the state. christmas market.fans describes how the region's markets represent a rich tradition and create a welcoming and festive atmosphere for locals and visitors.

The live nativity scene remains a central element of the Ulm Christmas market, while the discussion about animal protection and the requirements of a modern Christmas celebration continues.