There’s magic everywhere. The world is full of spellbound locations. Among the many places, Europe is packed with cities that not only have magic to them, they have charm and century-old traditions. For example, German towns/cities have a tradition to put on Christmas Markets from late November till late December. This tradition that’s been alive for many years brings joy to all, no matter the age. Nothing is more magical than spending a day in what seems to be a hallmark holiday card.
Dusseldorf is one of the many cities that continuous on this tradition. Each year the city transforms the old town to look like Christmas wonderland. The narrow streets of this historical part of the city are busier than ever. Packed with wooden stands that sell food, traditional liquor, toys, and handmade products from local vendors. This venue brings out the locals and tourists from early in the morning till late at night.
About the Market:
The market is opening from 21 November to 30 December 2019. Monday to Wednesday the hours are 11.00 a.m. to 8.00 p.m. From Thursdays to Sundays the market is open till 9.00 p.m. As well please note 24 December the market will be working from 11.00 a.m. to 03.00 p.m, and 26 December from 14.00 to 8.00 p.m.
At the market, you can find food and souvenirs, and loads of fun for children, such as carousel. Christmas music accompanies you wherever you go! Düsseldorf Christmas Market has seven different themed markets, all of which are within walking distance of each other. As well here you can find other attractions too, such as the the ice rink on Corneliusplatz, or the Big Wheel on Burgplatz decked out in festive lights.
What to eat & drink at the Christmas Market:
Germany is all about meat, particularly bratwurst (sausages), roasted chestnuts, waffles, fried potato pancakes, candied almonds, and gluhwein. All the tasty treats are worth a try. However, don’t overdo it; some treats are very greasy. My favorite food to eat at the market is the fried potato pancakes. They usually coast four euros for four pancakes. My favorite drink at the market is gluhwein (it’s red hot wine with all sorts of spices), as well as weiße Glühwein (it’s hot white wine.)
P.S if you are a vegan or a vegetarian, market food might not be for you, try these three restaurants for some healthy/delicious food:
Sattgrün seems to be the best vegan place around Dusseldorf. There are three restaurants in Dusseldorf, and all three are always busy. Their buffet lunch and dinner meals have an overwhelming variety of hot soups, salads, noodles, rice, vegetable dishes, and sinful desserts. Sattgrün Mitte is the closest to city center located at Graf-Adolf-Platz 6, 40213 Düsseldorf, Germany.
Laura’s Deli has a philosophy clean, nutritious, healthy food cooked with natural, pure ingredients. Even though the deli has meat options, vegetarians and vegans love it because of its wide range of sandwiches, salads, pastries, and tasty power smoothies.
Frucht & Genuss is a vegetarian joint, with vegan options located right in the heart of the city. The ingredients used in their recipes are fresh and organic, without harmful chemicals.
Should you buy souvenirs at the market?
Nothing says you’ve been to a Christmas Market in Germany like buying a unique ornament.
The market is full of fantastic souvenirs. I wouldn’t say they are cheap; however, they are one of a kind. I usually buy Christmas ornaments for family and friends. The toys are symbolic to me. They remind me of my childhood; holidays spend at grammas. The thin glass in many shapes and forms, the meticulous paint job makes these ornaments a one of a kind gift. Another great idea for a present is to take a cup home. When you purchase a cup of hot wine, the vendor takes a deposit of around two or three euros for the cup, and some cups are worth keeping. This year I kept a snowman cup. The mug is a great way to remember your vacation because it has the year and the city’s name on it.
Other beautiful Christmas Market worth a visit is located in Stuttgart, Germany. To find out more read the “Christmas Wonderland” post.
I wish you all a very merry Christmas and holidays. Below in the comments, tell me about your favorite holiday tradition and location to visit.
