The more time Dan and I spend in Germany the more convinced we are that Germans know how to celebrate better than anyone. The latest example is the German Christmas market. Christmas markets begin in late November every year and run right up until Christmas. Cities big and small usher in the holiday season with the opening of “Weihnachtsmarkt” – an outdoor celebration where stalls full of decorations, ornaments, and toys line the streets, and people brave the cold to enjoy bratwursts, candied nuts, and warm drinks. This is one German “fest” where beer is not the drink of choice; Eierpunsch (a warm egg-based alcoholic drink) and Glühwein (hot mulled wine) are extremely popular. Most markets have a giant Christmas tree, a life size Nativity Scene, and live music.
This year we visited markets in five different cities: Wiesbaden, Frankfurt, Rüdesheim, Mainz, and Cologne. They were all so festive. We had a great time trying different types of Glühwein (and collecting the mugs!), stuffing ourselves with German Christmas cookies, and shopping for gifts.
We definitely need to find a way to bring Christmas markets back to the States!
I agree! We definitely need these Christmas markets!! You did make us some Glühwein though!! So fun and yummy and different! Love you guys!
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