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German Advent Christmas MarketsWeihnachtsmärkte: Glühwein, Sausages, Music, and Advent in Germany
Advent in Germany without Christmas markets (Weihnachtsmärkte), Glühwein, sausages, Lebkuchen biscuits, potato cakes, sweets, wooden toys, and music is unthinkable.
What are German Christmas Markets?German Christmas markets (Weihnachtsmärkte) are outdoor markets held all over Germany in the month leading up to Christmas. The exact composition of Christmas markets vary from market to market but generally comprises stalls selling food, Glühwein, and Christmas related wares such as Christmas tree decorations, candles, wooden toys, and sweets. German Christmas markets generally do not sell cheap plastic imports or clothing. Larger markets usually have simple rides aimed at small children. Many markets also have life music. Market names also varies: Weihnachtsmarkt is Christmas market in High German but in Dresden it is the Striezelmarkt, in Rothenburg Reiterlesmarkt, while in most of Bavaria Christkindlmarkt (spelled in various forms) is more common. When Are German Christmas Markets Open?German Christmas markets are generally open the month preceding Christmas. In larger cities and popular tourist towns, the markets usually functions daily from November 25 to just before Christmas. Christmas markets usually close on December 23 at the latest – Christmas markets are not held on December 24 or December 25. In smaller towns, markets are generally held only on weekends or sometimes just one or two weekends – often the first two in December. The exact hours similarly vary from Christmas market to Christmas market. Generally, markets are active from around 10 am to 8 pm. The best times to visit is late afternoon, early evening – darkness and lights simply do it for the atmosphere. Markets are generally busiest on Friday and Saturday evenings. A good time to arrive is Sunday for cheaper flights and hotel accommodation and a quieter day at the market on Monday. Food at German Christmas MarketsThe variety of food sold at German Christmas markets varies from market to market and region to region. However, some standards are available at all markets countrywide: Sausages (Wurst or Würstchen) in all shapes, lengths, and forms are usually grilled over an open or charcoal fire and sold in a bun. The bread is basically used to hold the warm sausage in – condiments including ketchup, mustard, mayonnaise, and pickles are generally available for self service. Sausages vary by region – best is simply to point at what looks good. German sausages have strict ingredient requirements and use high-quality meat but as usually with sausages, it is best not to enquire too finely about the exact details. Potato cakes are basically thick pancakes made from grated potato, flour, and a range of other possible ingredients. The names vary widely from region to region but of the around 30 variants Kartoffelpuffer and Reibekuchen are widely understood. Potato cakes are often served with applesauce or other side dishes and are frequently the best value for money at Christmas markets. Baked items – these range from region to region too but waffles and crepes are standard items at all markets. Sweets – sugary stuff in all shapes and sizes, nuts, dried fruits, candies, chocolates, gingerbread and Lebkuchen are popular. Drinks at German Christmas MarketsGlühwein (mulled red wine) is the standard drink served in decorated mugs. Sometimes flavors such as cherry or stronger alcohol (mit Schuss) is added for extra kick. Warm alcohol enters the blood stream fast so watch consumption with care. Kinder Punch (Children’s Punch) is the standard non-alcoholic drink. It is warm fruit juice – usually orange or apple – with the same spices added as to Glühwein. Hot chocolate, coffee, and tea are also available.
Which German Christmas Market to Visit?Honestly, it hardly matters but there are differences and for some tips and pointers see Christmas Markets in Germany and cheap flights from London, the UK, and Ireland to visit German Christmas markets.
The copyright of the article German Advent Christmas Markets in Germany Travel is owned by Henk Bekker. Permission to republish German Advent Christmas Markets in print or online must be granted by the author in writing.
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