Experience a Magical Christmas in Germany

 The holiday season comes alive when streets are ornamented with sparkling lights and the scent of pine, gingersnap cookies and mulled wine fill the air. 
 In Germany, the Christmas season begins on the first day of December when all the cities’ markets open up and become the subject of picturesque postcards.  It’s truly a fabulous time to visit. 

And the best way to enjoy this part of the year is by stopping at several of the towns and immersing into the culture and customs of its people.  In Cologne, for instance, out-of-towners will be impressed by the array of vendors.  They feature great selections of old as well as collector’s ornaments.  Among them you’ll find fine reproductions of religious figurines used in celebrations centuries past.  And when it comes to activities or entertainment, there’s always something going on.  The adults can join in singing carols while the children make gingerbread houses or write their wish list for St. Nicholas. 

Continue your discovery to the city of Nuremberg known for its 200 shop square, the scents of spiced cakes and other tasty treats prepared for all the guests to savor.  You’ll find the excitement of parents secretly decorating the tree for their children quite contagious.  You too will want to follow in the tradition.  So have a blast shopping for fruits, candy, nuts, tinsel, angels and plenty of presents to place beneath your tree.       

If you head out to Dresden, you’ll have the chance to taste all sorts of authentic regional delights that have become popular since the 1400’s.  These include “Stolen” a rich fruit cake covered with creamy icing.  So if you’re a food lover, this is the place to be.

And do take time to join in the festivities around castles and medieval villages.  The Wartburg Castle, for example, becomes a winter wonderland where artisans make candles, blow glass and make jewelry while carolers perform ancient songs. 

Another spectacular site worth visiting is the Rothenburg ob der Tauber.  It’s said to be among the most romantic places in the world.  Don’t leave without purchasing a hand-painted music box or trying sweet snow balls.     

To enjoy the folklore of the past and create new memories, consider spending Christmas in Germany.