Christmas markets became widely popular during the late Middle Ages in the German Empire. In fact, there are accounts of a certain priest of Nuremberg who complained that his Christmas Eve service was neglected because all the patrons were shopping at the market!
While commercial by nature, the sense of holiday materialism is actually diminished at the Christmas markets: the wares are not X-boxes or cell phones but homemade crafts, toys and ornaments—gifts to be cherished! What better way to kick off the season, then on a tour through the festive markets of some of Europe’s most beautiful cities?
Even as young children we instinctively sense that it is our traditions—family, cultural, and religious traditions—which lend the Christmas season particular joy! The same sense of tradition gives the Christmas Markets of Europe their charming allurement—the traditional flavors, aromas, crafts, music and energy. In Strasbourg, France, visited on our Alpine Christmas Markets Tour, the tradition goes even deeper: each of the coveted 200 stalls, beautifully set against the background of the delicate Strasbourg Cathedral, is handed down through familial generations—much like a family heirloom.
With many lasting contributions to holiday tradition, (i.e. the Christmas tree), it is little wonder why the famous German Christkindlesmarkts are the best places to find not just holiday cheer, but truly festive Christmas gifts as well. From lambskin shoes and stone candle holders to intricately crafted, wooden Christmas Pyramids, you’ll find the most memorable gifts nestled throughout the German Christmas Markets. Always a special delight for shoppers is Nuremberg’s historic market, where you’re sure to catch a glimpse of the holiday Zweschgenmännle—little Prune Men made from dried fruit and nuts!
