Postcards from Germany: Christmas Markets
With the new year just beginning, it may seem strange to be dwelling on the holidays, but in Germany the closing of the country's famed Christmas markets is good reason for a longing look back. Opening in mid-November in nearly every town in Germany, the markets look a bit like an outdoor Pumpkin Patch on a much larger scale. Vendors in rustic wooden booths sell handicrafts, gift items such as bags and scarves, and of course, everything Christmas -- from nativity scenes to ornaments to real nutcrackers.
The assortment of items on offer is only rivaled by the array of food and drink available. Germans take the enjoyment of gustation seriously, and Christmas markets provide distinctive treats in an especially festive atmosphere. Some Christmas favorites include Lebkuchen, a cookie similar to gingerbread but seasoned with clove and lots of nuts; crepes with chocolate filling; and Früchtekuchen, known to many as the holiday horror fruit cake.
Then there's Glühwein to drink. Literally translated as 'glow wine', this hot drink is made from red wine and spices. Germans say that it warms you -- or makes you 'glow' -- from the inside out, and that's warmth you need when it's freezing or below! Being outdoors doesn't stop anyone from enjoying Glühwein, even in the coldest of weather; stands selling the winter favorite range from small bars to large establishments resembling ski lodges. With names like 'Nikolaus Haus', these outfits are known for their painfully cheesy music selections and yet draw crowds that even the largest 'lodges' cannot contain.
The end of the holiday season, however, means the end of the atmosphere that permeates entire cities thanks to Christmas markets. Town squares once filled with festively decorated wooden huts become empty again. Air once perfumed with the delectable scent of bratwurst and Lebkuchen is once again at the mercy of chance for its odor. And everyone who is overcome by this uniqely German holiday spirit starts checking calendars and looking longingly at the page marked 'November', waiting impatiently for the reopening of the Christmas markets. Questions, comments or suggestions: guymongirl1@gmail.com.