A-Z Blogging Challenge - Xmas Markets

Christmas markets originated as Christkindlmarkt in the late Middle Ages in Germany and Austria, but are now held in many other countries. Generally held in the town square and adjacent pedestrian zones, the markets sell food, drink, and seasonal items from open-air stalls. Popular attractions at the market include the Nativity Scene, traditional Christmas cookies, Bratwurst, and for many visitors one of the highlights of the market, Glühwein, hot mulled wine. Some markets also have fairground-type rides or an ice-skating rink.

My first market was in Cologne (Koln) in the shadow of the famous Gothic cathedral.

In Brussels the market is held in the Grand Place and adjoining streets.

In contrast, the Dutch town of Valkenburg holds its Christmas market in the caves below the town.

The only French market I’ve been to (so far) is the one in Lille in Northern France.

But guess what, I’ve not yet been to the Christmas market in my own city of Manchester, even though this has taken place every year since 1998. Maybe this year, I'll get there!