section_path: Associated customs/Germany
section_name: Germany
paragraph_text: Germany
  
  In Germany Good Friday is known as Karfreitag (kara means "sorrow" in Old High German); it is a Stiller Feiertag (silent holiday), and there are strict rules banning activities deemed disrespectful to Christians. Rules vary among the sixteen different federal states, but often prohibit dancing and the use of loud appliances such as lawnmowers and leaf blowers. Nightclubs are shut, and films that may be shown in cinemas are restricted.
  
  In recent times the holiday has been informally called Carfreitag by extreme car enthusiasts, including those from other countries who visit Germany, who tune cars illegally and hold illegal races on public roads. Police seek to prevent unauthorised tuning, illegal races, noise, and pollution. Offenders can be fined and have points put on their licences, and in some cases lose their licences and have their cars confiscated.
  
  In Germany Good Friday is known as Karfreitag (kara means "sorrow" in Old High German); it is a Stiller Feiertag (silent holiday), and there are strict rules banning activities deemed disrespectful to Christians. Rules vary among the sixteen different federal states, but often prohibit dancing and the use of loud appliances such as lawnmowers and leaf blowers. Nightclubs are shut, and films that may be shown in cinemas are restricted.
  
  In recent times the holiday has been informally called Carfreitag by extreme car enthusiasts, including those from other countries who visit Germany, who tune cars illegally and hold illegal races on public roads. Police seek to prevent unauthorised tuning, illegal races, noise, and pollution. Offenders can be fined and have points put on their licences, and in some cases lose their licences and have their cars confiscated.