Christmas Markets are Spreading the Christmas Spirit

Staff Writer: Mie Berg

Sometimes it can be hard to get in a Christmas mood, if the weather’s not snowy or cold, but there is always a way to get in a Christmas mood. Like smells, visions, tastes, or songs. Now imagine all of those together at a market with hot chocolate, the smell of crepes, small Christmas decorations and a huge Christmas tree while listening to Mariah Carey and Michael Bublé from the speakers. Doesn’t that sound good? Christmas markets definitely help a lot of people getting in the right Christmas mood. Also, because they open in mid-November so you will get in the right mood a while before it’s actually Christmas.

Of course, there is a lot of options for different markets near Woodstock. For an example, there is the Christkindl Market in Atlanta, which is inspired by German traditions. And what gives you the spirit of Christmas more than some German holiday food? This Christmas market is a good example of how cultures even meet around the holidays. You get to experience part of what a German Christmas looks like, while trying their stuff, food etc. and all of that without even having to fly 4000 miles to do it! It is inspiring how we can share our cultures with each other in such an easy and impactful way. So go to Atlanta and try some crepes, listen to some joyful Christmas songs and get inspired by the German culture.

I talked to Maneni Cobos, a student at Woodstock, about her thoughts on the
impact on Christmas markets, and to that, she answered: “I really enjoy the Christmas markets, it’s one of my favorite things to do around the holidays, because it always gives me the final bit for being in a Christmas mood. Walking around looking at decorations, a cup of hot chocolate in the hand, knowing Christmas is just around the corner. That’s the best.”

But, like everything else, there is something for every person. So, if you’re more into the American kind of Christmas markets, there is one in Alpharetta too. It will be on December 2, and there will be possibilities for shopping for holiday gifts like décor, jewelry and more. And of course, there will be food. This market is more like an American one, with American food and products, but that doesn’t make it less special.

There aren’t really a lot of reasons not to go to a Christmas market this year…well, except if you are a real-life Grinch, but otherwise do it! Have fun with friends or family, enjoy the Christmas lights, the delicious food, the joy, and spend the most wonderful time of the year at the most memorable places during the holidays. It can even become a family tradition, to go to a Christmas market every year, and then you will always have those special memories. Have fun out there and enjoy the holiday!