Kultur 10 - Anna Kemeny

When I lived in England I was fortunate enough to visit the German Christmas markets. I loved them! My first experience was in Cologne, where were we enjoyed the traditional feel. After that we went to Germany every year to do our Christmas shopping. We went to several different towns and experienced all sorts of markets, all with their similarities, differences, and special charms. It was a wonderful atmosphere, I have great memories of snow falling as we wandered between the wooden cabins that were strewn with Christmas lights and covered in red velvet. I've savored the roasted chestnuts and candied pecans (cinnamon were my favorite) and watched my parents enjoy mulled wine in cups shaped like a stocking. They let us keep the cups (there's a deposit system) so we still drink tea from them. My favorite food was the potato pancakes, served with applesauce. My mouth still waters when I think about them! The Christmas markets were perfect for little gifts. There was always a stall with beautiful wood carvings and ornaments, where I would get my parents gifts. Every market also had a stall for puzzles and logic games. My brothers and I would always buy these fun little gadgets and we still play with them to this day.

I think Christmas markets are a wonderful tradition and I wish they were more common throughout the world. I miss the cute little stalls and the cheery atmosphere. Those markets really awoke in me the spirit of Christmas.