The German observance of what is commonly know in English as Christmas Day is called Weihnachten. Many families celebrate Advent, which is the religious preparation for the arrival of das Chriskind (the Christ Child). Most Americans also celebrate Advent as well. Traditional Advent activities include the Adventskranz, or the Advent wreath. It is set up on the fourth Sunday before Christmas Day and candles are lit every Sunday around it until Christmas.
One thing not to miss while in Germany during Christmas time are the Christmas Markets. Germany is know for the markets during Christmas. They are held in cities and towns across the country. The Christmas gifts you will find at the markets are not mass-produces. The craft work is of real quality. You will find traditional gifts such as toys, wood carvings, marionettes, candles and lambskin shoes. The ambiance of the market is unbelievable. The smell of mulled wine, hot chestnuts, grilled sausage and other tasty snacks is alluring. Kids will love the gingerbread houses as well! Most markets are open all day during the month of December.
My cousin traveled to Brussels, Bruges, and Dusseldorf.
Brussels is known for their light show during the Christmas time. The light show takes place in the heart of Brussels at the Grand-Place. It is part of the Winter Wonders, which includes a Christmas Market, Ferris wheel, merry-go-rounds, ice rink for skating and a Christmas tree.
Brussels is in Belgium, which is known for its chocolate and waffles. As you can see, the waffle and chocolate stores are everywhere!
In a small town in Southwest Germany (about 5 hours away from Belgium), there is a ChocolART Festival. It is a chocolate festival full of chocolate tasting, chocolate making, and all sorts of chocolate from around the world. Talk about a dream come true!
The next place on Melissa's list was Dusseldorf. It is in Northern Germany and known for fashion and art culture. The food is unbelievable as well. a restaurant by the name of Im Schiffchen is the number one ranked place to eat in Dusseldorf. The food is French and Italian. If you want traditional German food, try Schweine Janes.
Bruges was the last stop. It is the capital and largest city of the province of West Flanders in the Flemish region of Belgium. It is located in the Northwest of the country. It is often times referred to as "The Venice of the North" because of the canals in the city. Bruges has beautiful Christmas Markets that you do not want to miss! The town itself is so lovely that you will not want to leave.
In North Germany in Heiligengeistfeld (I know, what a name), there is a festival called the Hamburg Dom Festival. It is an open air fair with Ferris wheels, roller coasters, concerts, and fireworks. A great way to spend a December nights with the family or friends!
When traveling in Germany during December, you will run across many traditional Christmas treats. Gluhwein, which is mulled wine is a popular treat. Also Eierlikor, which is egg liquor. Far from American egg nog, it has egg yolks, spirits, sugar, brandy and vanilla cream. The food that is popular during this time of the year is roast goose, kale, carp and potatoes. Gingerbread, fruit cake and spicy shortbread are the desserts you will find...and enjoy!
"Frohe Weihnachten"
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