A popular German Christmas tradition from the mighty German Alps to the streets of small villages and large cities too, is to visit German Christmas markets. They are also known as Weihnachtsmarkt (Christmas market) or Chriskindlmarkt and are simply magical. Full of festive cheer, illuminated city scapes, the smell of roasted almonds and Gluehwein (spiced mulled wine) and so much more.
The history of Christmas markets dates back to the late middle ages in the German speaking part of Europe. Back then, from the 1st Advent of the holiday season, townspeople gathered on the town square or local pedestrian zones to commune with one another – A sort of middle age meet, greet, see and be seen event.
Today’s Weihnachtsmarkt serves as an alternative to the commercialized Christmas shopping at the mall. It’s where family, friends, and business associates gather outside in open markets for shopping, fun, food, drink, and lots of laughter. Perhaps the laughter is due to the Gluehwein a popular mulled wine drink served warm in a festive mug you can take home as a souvenir. If it’s not the wine that makes you grin, then the decorated huts and lights are sure to bring about a smile.
Let there be light – The simple twinkle of lights amidst a dark sky reminds me of taking a piece of the evening sky closer to us. The decorated huts and fresh Christmas trees from the nearby forest display simplicity and elegance.
Wow, that tastes great! – You know you are close to the market when you smell the mulled wine simmering, bratwurst grilling, and chestnuts roasting. These are the standards at every Christmas market as well as sweet roasted almonds, candies, and Lebkuechen (ginger bread).
Caroling, Caroling – The markets can get quite crowded especially on the weekends so it’s quite common to share a table or the edge of a bar with a stranger and enjoy the local bands or DJ playing Christmas music. Start singing the Christmas songs with your neighbor and enjoy the experience and atmosphere.
What a perfect gift! – Here you will find unique gifts, ornaments, decorations, and other handcrafted items actually made in Germany. I’ll have to buy one for a friend and one for me too of course.
Fun and festive for all ages, German Christmas markets are great way to enjoy the holiday season. To find your nearest Germany Christmas market visit http://www.germany-christmas-market.org.uk/
Germany travel awaits you, so get packed and go experience it!
Comments
Sharon,
Your descriptions and the photos make me wish I could be there! It looks beautiful! I'd love to try the mulled wine and special foods, too.
Wishing I was there. I know from first hand experience that Germany, always beautiful, becomes a wonderland of color and festive cheer at Christmas. Your beautiful article and slide show sends me skipping down memory lane.
Sounds wonderful! Ed is going to Germany and will be visiting a couple of the markets - I'm jealous.
Never thought about Germany and markets. I guess each country has their own version.
Wish I was there!
:)
Third culture kids examiner
Seattle stay-at-home moms examiner
Brings back wonderful memories; thanks for sharing; slide show is great!!
Sharon, you are so lucky to live near all these wonderful places, and we are lucky to share them vicariously with you. Cheers!
Boy I wish I were there. My mouth was watering just reading your delightful descriptions of all the food and drink!! How magical they must be and you're right there in the middle!
Got something to say?
Examiner.com is looking for writers, photographers, and videographers to join the fastest growing group of local insiders. If you are interested in growing your online rep apply to be an Examiner today!