Just as we entered the Germany Pavilion as the band began to play. My research online tells me it is Margret Almer & The Bavarian Band. Margret Almer is the yodel queen of Germany – and I can confirm that her yodelling skills were really impressive!
I loved the Christmas wreaths in the Germany Pavilion with their traditional red, gold, and green baubles and cute gingerbread ornaments. I also loved the snowmen ornaments that they were selling (above) but they were made of glass and just looked too fragile to transport home. Naturally I regret it now as I do love collecting Christmas ornaments!
Germany
Many of Germany’s rich traditions of the season have been adopted all over the world.
Germany produced the very first tannenbaum (Christmas tree). According to legend, one snowy evening, the beauty of the starlit sparkling fir trees overcame a well-known minister, Martin Luther. He was reminded of the star on the night the Christkindl (Christ child) was born. Tho share this magical feeling with his children, he brought home a fir tree and clipped candles on to the branches, so they would appear to be covered in glistening snow.
The Adventskalender (Advent Calendar) is another German invention designed to involve children in the festivities leading up to Christmas. Even today, when children look behind the tiny windows of the calendar, they find chocolate or even small toys.
One of the most famous German stories told at Christmastime is the story of a girl, Clara and her Nussknacker (Nutcracker), magical toy that comes to life! It is still believed that at Christmas, children and ‘the pure at heart’ can see this special kind of magic.
In German towns large and small, the Weihnachtsmärket (Christmas Market) will be the center of activity. People gather to listen to music and dance, and to drink beer, apple cider, or Gluhwein (hot mulled wine). Everyone gets their fill of baked goods, such as gingerbread hearts, sugar-roasted almonds, stollen, Lebkuchen (spice bars), and other sweets. Families shop together for beautiful glass baubles and other things to decorate the tree, or buy fun toys and treats for children.
Now, as you take in the festive sights of this wonderful German Weihnachtsmärket, enjoy the magical feeling in the air that Christmas is on its way.
Fröhliche Weihnacten! Merry Christmas!
There was also a Bavarian Holiday Kitchen, but we didn’t buy anything from here – not sure why as one of my favourite Christmas treats – stollen – was on the menu. Plus other delicious goodies like a cheese fondue in a bread bowl – OMG, why did we miss this out?!
We did however, stop by the Tuscany Holiday Kitchen in the Italy Pavilion for some more Holiday food from around the world.
Festival of The Holidays – Italy Pavilion
Tuscany Holiday Kitchen
Fusilli Di Gragnano Alla Carbonara – Fusilli Pasta in a Creamy Parmesan Sauce with Pancetta and Onions ($7)
Crespelle Di Mele – Cinnamon Apple Fritters and a Vanilla Sauce Drizzled with Chocolate Caramel Sauce ($7)
Panettone Alla Milanese – Warm Italian Fruit Cake with Vanilla Sauce and Cherry Syrup ($8)
Tuscany Holiday Kitchen » Festival of The Holidays
Total Paid: $22