Christmas Time in Germany

Weihnachten (the German word for Christmas) time is a very scenic and picturesque season in Germany. Christmas markets (Weihnachtsmarkt) are located everywhere around Germany, but especially in Berlin. I visited three different markets in Berlin: Gendarmenmarkt, Charlottenburg, and Potsdamer Platz. Each had its own feeling to it, but in general they were all pretty similar to one another. Customers walk around the small stands shopping for Christmas gifts, while enjoying some classic German delicacies. These include Bratwurst, roasted almonds, french fries, but none more unique than Gluhwein. Gluhwein is a hot mulled wine served in small mugs, and they are extremely popular at Christmas markets in Germany. Nearly every customer walks around with a Gluhwein in one hand, and it certainly makes a fun time even more enjoyable.

I also visited the Erfurter Weihnachsmarkt, which is located in the smaller city of Erfurt. I took a bus to get to Erfurt to visit my friend at his University, who I originally met while he was a German exchange student at my high school. We visited the Weihnachtsmarkt on my first night there, and it quickly became clear that this was my favorite of the Christmas markets that I experienced. Being in a smaller city, it felt more authentic than in Berlin. The historic buildings and castle surrounding the market created a very cool vibe that really complimented the Weihnachtmarkt.