From Candy Cones to Cultural Connections: The German Schultüte Tradition

On the last weekend before school starts, schools in Germany host a so-called Einschulungsfeier (school enrollment celebration) with speeches and songs from older classes. The new students meet their teachers and walk to their classroom for the very first time.

Afterwards, there’s usually a celebration with family and friends- sometimes at a restaurant, sometimes in private homes and gardens.

But the highlight of the day is the Schultüte- also called Zuckertüte in the eastern part of Germany- a large, colorful cone filled with candy, school supplies, and small toy surprises. Schultüten come in different sizes:
✏️ The new students get the biggest one.
✏️ Their siblings often receive a medium-sized one.
✏️ Guest children attending the celebration sometimes receive a small version.

Whereas in the past, parents would simply buy a Schultüte at a store, in recent years many German moms (and some dads!) have started to personalize them: sewing, decorating, and crafting unique designs that reflect their child’s interests and personality.

Traditions like the Schultüte are more than just “nice extras”- they mark important life transitions, strengthen a sense of belonging, and reflect regional and cultural identities. For families who move abroad, keeping or adapting these traditions can provide children with an anchor to their roots while inviting others to learn about and celebrate cultural diversity.

💡Have you experienced or adapted a special back-to-school tradition from another country? I’d love to hear your stories.