The streets of this market square are all decked out in a tradition born nearly 700 years ago. Weihnachtsmarkte or Christkindlmarkte (Christmas markets, if you prefer less of a mouthful), take place around the world, but they originated in Germany as a celebratory way to observe Advent, the Christian season leading up to Christmas Eve. These markets are generally open-air affairs where everything is decorated, including the trees (called Tannenbaums in German if they"re firs). People shop from local artisans who sell their handmade wares in small wooden chalets. Then it"s off to eat traditional foods—roasted almonds, pastries, and biscuits—and sip on warm mulled wine.
It’s Weihnachtsmarkt time!
Today in History
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The story of the poinsettia
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Presidents Day
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Lake Tekapo, New Zealand
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World Environment Day
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International Day of the Tropics
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Pegadung Rock, Lampung, Sumatra, Indonesia
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Maloja, Switzerland
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Rock River Falls, Upper Peninsula, Michigan
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Birds of a feather
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A keel-billed toucan in Costa Rica
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Puma in Patagonia
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Male kori bustard, Maasai Mara National Reserve, Kenya
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An island in the Highlands
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The long and wiggling path
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Black History Month
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Rock formations at Sedona, Arizona
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World Water Day
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International Beaver Day
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Birds of a feather
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So, how long till springtime?
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International Womens Day
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Fresh water on the Silk Road
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Happy Independence Day!
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World Photography Day
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Happy Thanksgiving from an expert face-stuffer
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Anniversary of the British Museum
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North Cascades National Park at 50
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Rock House in Hocking Hills State Park, Ohio
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Happy Fathers Day!
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World Philosophy Day
Bing Wallpaper Gallery

