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Weinachtsmarkts: Germany's Christmas Gift to the World

April 03, 0018 12:00 AM
When it’s Christmastime in Germany, the town squares transform into enchanted holiday scenes with open-air stalls, decorated Christmas trees, and brightly lit paper stars. Aromas of sizzling sausage, spices, and sweets delight the senses. As soon as Advent begins, the Christmas markets begin to appear, presenting their seasonal foods and traditional handicrafts. German Christmas markets, also known as Weinachtsmarkts or Christkindlmarkts, began hundreds of years ago as winter markets where villagers could purchase necessary items for the long, cold months ahead. As they spread to other German villages, they became more than marketplaces—they evolved into highly anticipated holiday events. Each unique Christmas market provides a distinct experience with holiday themes, regional foods, and custom crafts.
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Weihnachtsmärkte: Christmas in Germany

September 15, 0015 12:00 AM
It’s dark and cold outside, but that doesn’t seem to bother the hundreds of people moving around in the open square, walking from stall to stall. Twinkling lights illuminate the Marktplatz as visitors drink mulled wine with friends, eat a bratwurst on Brötchen, or snack on some Mandeln. Others buy handmade gifts for loved ones, while parents take their children for rides on the Karussel. It’s Christmastime in Germany, and with the season comes the traditional Weihnachtsmarkt.German Christmas markets have been a tradition since the seventeenth century. Originally meant to entice churchgoers to attend services, the markets have since turned into a more commercial venture for businesses, restaurants, and entertainers. Many of the larger cities like Frankfurt, Berlin, and Leipzig run their Christmas markets from the end of November until the week before Christmas. Small towns also have their own Christmas markets that span just one weekend.
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