Traditional Markets in Europe – 1. Nuremberg
Chaque année, durant la période de l’Avent (quatre semaines précédant la veille de Christmas), les marchés de Noël se déroulent dans les centres de nombreuses villes d’Europe. L’évolution commerciale récente et la diffusion à une large échelle de ces marchés en font aujourd’hui une attraction touristique des plus répandues.
These markets, made up of small wooden stalls nestled together, offer local culinary, artisanal, and decorative products for sale. On-site demonstrations and entertainment for young and old are also part of the magic of this festive activity. This is the first in a series of articles on Christmas markets in Europe.
The MaNuremberg Arch (Christkindlesmarkt in German)
The Nuremberg Christmas Market in Germany is the city's most important event and one of the most famous in the world. It has existed since 1628 and takes place annually on the Market Square. It runs from November 26 to December 21, 2010.
Its opening is marked by a welcoming speech from the Christmas Angel. Several dozen kiosks and small chalets are set up on the square. This is the perfect opportunity to buy Christmas decorations and various trinkets typical of this German region. The region's culinary richness is also in the spotlight, with Glühwein (spiced mulled wine), grilled sausages, and the famous Nuremberg gingerbread.
This market has expanded to other themed venues throughout the city. One example is the International Market, located on the town hall square, where products from Nuremberg's many sister cities, such as Nice, Venice, Shenzhen, and Atlanta, are on display.
There is also children's Christmas. Il s’agit d’un autre marché offrant des attractions pour les plus petits telles qu’un manège d’antan avec des rennes et des traîneaux de saint Nicolas, une grande roue et un train à vapeur ! Divers ateliers sont proposés aux enfants qui peuvent apprendre à fabriquer des gâteaux de Noël et des bougies, à travailler le verre, la pyrogravure et autres merveilles. C’est aussi l’occasion d’acheter de très beaux jouets, Nuremberg accueillant, plus tôt dans l’année, le Salon international du jouet.
…to be continued (2. the Christmas Market in Vienna, Austria)