It’s the most wonderful time of the year….
and for a German this time is especially shaped by Weihnachtsmärkte (Christmas markets). A Christmas market is a street market associated with the celebration of Christmas during the four weeks of Advent and I’m sure that almost every single German citizen visits at least one each year.
The History of Christmas Markets
The markets originated in Germany and their history goes back to the Late Middle Ages. In 1384, the first official market was held in Bautzen. Today, the most famous market is probably the Christkindlesmarkt in the city of Nürnberg. And you can find all kind of Christmas markets all over Germany. For most visitors one of the highlights of the market is the Glühwein, hot mulled wine (with or without a shot of brandy).
© haz.de
Christmas Markets in the Bay Area
Because I’m almost certain that you now want to visit a Christmas market, I found some for my local readers. For the next three weekends before Christmas you get the chance to immerse into one of the biggest German Christmas traditions of all. And we might even meet at the Glühwein booth 😉
© Ludwig’s SJ
Ludwig’s Christkindlmarket, December 3rd from 10 am to 6 pm. Ludwig’s German Table, 261 N Second Street, San Jose CA 95112. Read more here about their first market last year.
Not the Bay Area, but close enough for Christmas lovers is the Sacramento Christkindlmarkt @ Sacramento Turnverein. 3349 J Street, Sacramento CA 95816 Today, December 2 from 10 am – 6 pm and tomorrow, December 3rd from 11 am – 5 pm.
© GISSV
German Holiday Market in Mountain View. This is definitely the highlight of the local holiday season. It’s an incredible event run by all the parents of the German International School of Silicon Valley. If you haven’t been, you must go. Saturday, December 9th from 11 am to 9pm, Mountain View City Hall Plaza.
San Jose Craft Holiday Fair, December 16th and 17th from 11 am to 6pm. This in an family-friendly indoor event. Admission is free. South Hall, 435 South Market Street, San Jose, CA 95113
Have a wonderful Adventszeit!
