Christmas market

Christmas market is a street market associated with the celebration of Christmas during the four weeks of Advent. These markets originated in Germany, but are now held in many other countries. The history, attractions, and food and drink of Christmas markets are notable aspects of these festive events.

History[edit | edit source]

The first recorded Christmas market, known as the December market, was held in Vienna, Austria, in 1294. However, the tradition of Christmas markets dates back to the Late Middle Ages in the German-speaking part of Europe and in many parts of the former Holy Roman Empire that includes many eastern regions of France and Switzerland.

Attractions[edit | edit source]

Christmas markets are street markets, which are associated with the celebration of Christmas. They are usually set up in the center of the city. They offer a range of products such as food, drink, and seasonal items from open-air stalls accompanied by traditional singing and dancing. Some of the popular attractions at Christmas markets include Nativity scenes, carousels, and Christmas trees.

Food and Drink[edit | edit source]

Food and drink are major parts of the Christmas market experience. Traditional foods include Lebkuchen (gingerbread), Bratwurst, and Feuerzangenbowle (a traditional German alcoholic drink for which a rum-soaked sugarloaf is set on fire and drips into mulled wine). Many stalls also sell hot mulled wine and eggnog.