Christmas Markets

Christmas markets start popping up in European Cities in late November/early December. The Markets are always open for the four weeks of Advent and most continue through Three Kings Day (January 6). Dating back to the Late Middle Ages, Christmas Markets began in the German speaking region of Europe. The markets are usually held in the Town Square or along large pedestrian areas and can be quite large! While wandering past the many stands you will always find food, drinks, gifts and seasonal Christmas items. Today, Christmas Markets have grown in popularity and can be found throughout Europe. The Markets stick to traditional food and drink and homemade goods, allowing the visitors to experience an old world Christmas feel.

Christmas Market Stands from Germany, Copenhagen and Paris

Over the past few years I have been to a couple of Christmas markets and they always seem to get me in the holiday spirit! These include:

• Prague- Held in the Old Town Square, we were there the opening weekend and it really put my friends and me in the Christmas spirit. They had a petting zoo with the cutest animals and  these really amazing pastries that they made over a fire in front of you.
• Berlin & Munich- Berlin was the first stop on my Dad's and my 2010 Winter European road trip. It is also where our impromptu Christmas Market tour began. In Germany, each Market has its own Glühwein mug, with the Market name, year and design. We now have quite the collection!
• Salzburg- Held in Cathedral Square, this market was rather cute. Performances by traditional choirs and school groups throughout December add to the allure of the Market and add to the spirit of Christmas.
• Tivoli (Copenhagen): The Tivoli Gardens are transformed into a winter wonderland for advent! The decorations (the light plan is designed by Tiffany's head designer), planning and thought that go into this market is insane and a must see!

Christmas Market Decorations

A staple in Christmas markets across Europe is Glühwein, or mulled wine. It is typically served hot and made with red wine and an assortment of spices such as cinnamon sticks. cloves. star anise, citrus zest, sugar and sometimes vanilla. Glühwein, which means "glowing wine" in German, got its name from the hot iron stems that were once used to warm the wine. It is uncertain how long Glühwein has been around, but the first Glühwein tankard, or mug, dates back to 1420!

Bratwurst & Glühwein: Christmas Market Staples

This past Sunday, I added a Parisian Christmas Market to my list and headed to the Champs Élysées! Meandering up and down the street I passed by stands selling handmade Christmas handicrafts, made in France products and tons of food and drink stands...everything looked so good! Needing to continue my Christmas shopping and wanting to make sure that all gifts were made in France, the market proved to be the opportune place to pick up a few things while practicing my French.

Handmade soap, French Chocolate & fresh lavender

Christmas Markets represent what the Christmas season means: spending good, quality time with friends and family and enjoying the moment. As much as I enjoyed the Paris Christmas Market, I prefer the markets in Germany and Copenhagen.There is something extra special and Christmas-y about enjoying warm food and drinks huddled around a fire pit watching the snow fall and the people pass.