Christmas markets are a big part of each cities’ Christmas celebrations these days, with almost every town and city in the UK having their own. These German-style markets have grown in popularity, with many staying around for the whole of the festive season.
There’s so much to do, see and buy at a Christmas market. But what exactly is a Christmas market, and what should you look out for? Read on for our guide to Christmas markets, what you need to look out for, and what to buy and try.
Christmas markets have been around for a long time. These street markets originated in Germany, and have spread across the rest of the continent in recent decades. Here in the UK, Christmas markets have really grown in popularity recently.
The first “true” Christmas market is widely considered to be Dresden’s Striezelmarkt, which first welcomed festive fans way back in 1434! Since these markets originated in Germany, they are heavily influenced by German food and drink, traditions and decor.
The Food
When going to a Christmas market, you need to try out the food. There are plenty of different stalls selling a multitude of sweet and savoury treats. Treat yourself to a Bratwurst or a giant pretzel, sweet or savoury. You could even try something sweet such as Lebkuchen, a sweet and soft gingerbread. Delicious!
The Drinks
One of my favourite things about Christmas markets is the mulled wine, Glühwein in German. This warm and spiced wine-based drink is a much-welcomed winter warmer. Many Christmas markets offer you the choice to add a spirit such as rum or amaretto to your mulled wine, creating a hearty toddy to drink. Other mulled drinks are available too, such as mulled cider or mulled ale.
The Fun
Christmas markets are not just about the food and the drink though, there’s plenty of other fun to be had. Throughout the evenings, there are often stages where live bands play throughout the night. Think traditional German bands, as well as brass bands, all playing music to get you into the Christmas spirit. Many Christmas markets also have rides and attractions such as carousels to keep you entertained.
This is a useful Christmas markets guide for students
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