The German phrase "zwischen den Jahren" ("between the years") refers to the days between Christmas Eve and New Year's Day or - depending on who you ask - the 6th of January (Epiphany).

So, if your German friends don't answer the phone or open the door during that period, please remember:

They are spending their holidays in a non-existing time-slot between 2 consecutive years.

Enjoy our language!

#TheGermanWord

@jensclasen the Maya had a similar concept for the 5 "nameless" days at the end of their 360 day annual calendar.