Christmas trinkets | Photo by Philippe Halle ()
Christmas markets are part of the German cultural experience that make the holiday season particularly special, especially if you can’t spend it with loved ones back home. The markets of Nuremberg and Cologne, for example, are an experience not to be missed! From the brightly lit huts to the aromas of roasted nuts, German Christmas markets sure know how to captivate us in a holly, jolly mood. They bring a sense of community that welcomes all to one of the most magical seasons of the year. They’re also an excellent opportunity to purchase uniquely European gifts to commemorate your time here and for family back home. If you’re planning to do a little holiday shopping, consider these five gifts to put under the tree.
1. Christmas Pyramids
Germany’s Erzgebirge region is home to these beautiful, handcrafted wooden Weihnachtspyramide, or Christmas pyramid. However, you can find them in any Christmas market. These decorations synonymous with this time of the year are comprised of a decorated pyramid-looking frame with a carousel at the center and a rotor at the top which is propelled by the warmth of the candles. Because they are carefully handmade, they can be quite expensive, but may be worth it as a gift or simply a souvenir for yourself. A simple one-tier pyramid costs around 15 euros while the 6-tier one costs around 2,000 euros.
2. Ornaments
As you can probably tell, Germans excel at anything woodworking. Almost every memorabilia you peruse through at these markets are made of wood, including ornaments. However, apart from the delicate and beautiful wooden ornaments, there are also beaded and hand-blown glass ones that should be displayed for everyone to see. What better way to showcase a beautiful, hand-blown glass ornament that you purchased from these markets than by adorning them on a Christmas tree? Tip: To ensure the product you are buying is genuine and not imported, look for the word “echt” which means real. You wouldn’t want to purchase an ornament that was imported and not native to the Christmas market scene.
3. Glühwein Mugs
You can’t walk out of these markets and not come out with a Glühwein mug! Though you can buy these mugs without the wine in them, what’s the fun in that? After you’re done drinking your nice, warm cup of mulled wine, pack them up carefully and wash them when you get home. It will make for a great keepsake and an inexpensive gift. Tip: To compliment the famous mugs, mostly colored in red or blue, buy a bottle of Glühwein which can be bought at the markets. This set would make a thoughtful secret Santa gift or is perfect for those who want a taste of Germany.
4. Star Paper Lanterns
The magic of the German Christmas markets not only lies within the festive huts, Glühwein and tree, but also with the Christmas stars twinkling up the markets. Just take a leisurely stroll around the market and villages and you’ll notice these staple lanterns illuminating houses and businesses, reminding us that the most wonderful time of the year is back! Be sure to tell the vendor if you want the light as well as the star as they are sold separately. However, in order to be kinder to your wallet, buy the chord and lightbulb in stores such as Toom for the cheapest option. This wonderful market find makes for a perfect welcoming light hanging from your front window. The lanterns sell at 15-25 euros.
5. Locally made soaps
Soaps and lotions are always an exceptional present to buy for those near and dear to us, but locally and organically made soaps are even better. I have yet to attend a Christmas market in Germany that doesn’t sell local soap and lotion that are not only environmentally friendly but also smell heavenly! For those who love lavender for example, surprise them with fresh soap with real lavender pieces that will ensure a calming presence before going to bed.
Whether you’re shopping for yourself or others, at Germany’s Christmas markets, you’ll never leave empty-handed! Celebrate the season the keeps on giving by buying market treasures that can’t be found anywhere else. "Fröhliche Weihnachten!"
