If you are traveling through any part of Europe during the Christmas season, it’s hard to miss a Christmas market. In Germany these delightful celebrations in the darkest of days are called “Weihnachtsmarkts.” And if your teens are in tow for your trip, you’ll mostly likely want to bring them along because they really are an experience for everyone and a must do. Christmas markets bring you three main things:
- Completely unhealthy food
- Every type of alcohol
- All kinds of kitschy Christmasy things
Fried Food is the Best
Traditional Christmas market fare includes bratwurst, fries, fried potato pancakes (fried), churros (also fried), hamburgers, chips, Kaiserschmarrn (fried dough with sugar) soup in a bread bowl. None of this is real food, but man, I promise you your teens will love it and love you for buying it for them. Feed them and feed them often at the market.
Related: Family Layover in Frankfurt: How to Spend 24 Hours (or Less) in “Mainhattan”
Drinks to Keep Everyone Warm and Happy
So while you’re sipping Gluhwein (maybe with an extra shot of something), the kids can also enjoy the beverages from the fest. They have all kinds of delicious drinks like non-alcoholic Gluhwein, hot chocolate with whipped cream, and cider. Each drink comes in a fun unique decorative mug. You can either keep it to remember how much fun you had with your family or return and get your deposit back. The deposit (or pfand) is between 2 and 4 Euros. As you can see, I am starting a collection to celebrate all the happiness at Christmastime.
Related: The Ultimate Guide for First-Timers in Germany (How Not to Look Like a Newbie)
Browse the Stalls and Christmas Shop
Each market is different than the next. You may see the same chocolate man or soap vendors at various markets, and each one will have stalls selling outerwear (hats, glove, mittens, scarves). But take the time to seek out fun handicrafts or opportunities to shop for gifts. Between geodes, jewelry, instruments, and wooden ornaments, there is something for everyone.
Related: Beginner’s Guide to Savoring Any Christmas Market Wherever You Are
Enjoy the Live Music
Most markets have live music showcasing everything from accordion and guitar to violin and vocals. This is a great opportunity for live performances. Street performers can entertain for a while, especially if they are good.
Main photo by Y Heng on Unsplash
All other photos ©Linda Kerr, TravelTeening
