Hello everyone! Today I would like to introduce everyone to a famous Christmas event in Europe called the Christmas Market, something everyone looks forward to not only in France, but everywhere in Europe.
Christmas Market is, just as the name suggests, a street market that sell products and gifts related to the holiday season. The market consists of small wooden stores with each one selling different goods. The markets open as early as Dec. 2 and close around the Dec. 30, but depending on the country, some may extend into the new year. There are usually lighting decorations surrounding the stores, live music, and a Christmas tree in the middle of the market. So if you wonder where the market is, just look for lights and follow the sounds of the singing Christmas chorus!
Let me explain the difference of Christmas markets in countries like France and Germany. Although the Christmas market is common in Europe, different products are sold in different countries, and they interestingly reflect the unique culture of each place.
In France, you see a lot of typical goods, such as bread, hot wine, cookies, Christmas decorations, and toys. Among the most popular items are the renowned French pastries and chocolates.
In Germany however, the markets specialize in sausages and hotdogs, called bratwurst. At the German markets, it seems like one in four stores sell bratwurst-related food. This makes sense because Germany is well known for their meats.
The number of stores in a market varies as well. In Nancy, where I study, one block of the market can consist of 10 stores. But in Strasbourg, a large city east of Nancy that is home to the oldest Christmas market in France, a block can consist up to 40 or 50 stores.
The Christmas markets have such a welcoming, fun atmosphere. One thing I noticed that is different from North America is that there are more religious symbols. Many stores sell religious dolls and toys, such as small dolls of Mother Mary and Jesus Christ, along with small houses and animals. By combining these toys, one can put up a small display of the Nativity of Jesus.
It was interesting to experience such a beautiful Christmas while abroad. It is really different from Canada and it would be lovely to see if there will be a similar Christmas market opened every year in Canada as well. Thanks for reading!