Tis the season to be jolly! Or at least, that’s what everyone says. The celebration of Christmas, as well as many other winter festivals, is based around the notion of celebration, and happiness, in the darkest, coldest months. Each and every one of us has our own traditions and decorations - a specific way to celebrate this holiday. One such tradition is that of the German Christmas markets. Although Christmas markets can be found around the world, and in many different styles, it is the German format that is both known and loved. Despite the history of the Christmas market in many regions, it is that of Germany which is best recognised. This may be due to the lack of an imposing religious presence (which is heavily present in the strongly Catholic countries of France, Italy and Spain), or due to the delicious, and traditionally German food and drink, designed to warm people up on a cold night. Whatever the reason, there is no doubt that German Christmas markets are an essential part of the holiday celebrations for many.
So, what is it that makes a Christmas market? The qualifications appear to be the inclusion of specific, ‘christmassy’ items. These include; a nativity scene, carved nutcrackers, toasted sweet almonds, hot chestnuts, and figures made of dried plums. The star of the show, however, especially in German markets, is the food and drink. Gluhwein, although originating in Germany, is present in many markets. Described as hot mulled wine, with or without a shot of brandy, and usually added sugar, it is a delicious way of warming up the usually freezing shoppers. Bratwurst, the typical food of said markets, is a little more widely known. A German sausage, cooked by frying, Bratwurst in a bun (especially with curry sauce) is another popular manner to keep warm whilst trouping through the crowds. Other than food, many stalls sell Christmas decorations; both for the tree, and around the house - many of these being originally made by the stall owners, rather than resold from a mass producers. Other than those products, there’s as much original produce as you could expect to find at markets. Home grown fruit, homemade candles, and knitted hats, gloves and scarves galore. The atmosphere of community, present due to the large attendance of people, and the authentic nature of the items being sold, is practically tangible, making a perfectly christmassy setting.
Despite a modern popularity, the concept of a Christmas market is not at all a new one. Despite German Christmas markets being well known, the first recorded winter market is from Vienna, the ‘December market’ dating back to 1294. Other well known markets, which are still going, is the one in Munich (began 1310), Augsburg (1498), and Frankfurt (1393). On ‘opening nights’, there is typically traditional dancing and singing, as well as a ‘Christkind’, literally Christ child, a local child, who is meant to represent Jesus. Despite the small nod to religion, the rest of the celebration is focused more on the community, than the birth of Jesus.
For many, the Christmas market is an essential part of the winter celebration. The joy of community, good food and drink, and the warmth present seems to be truly representative of the Christmas holiday - remaining happy, and loving, even in the darkest of times.
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