Weihnachtsmarkt

Before I get into the next series of entries telling about our trip I'd like to mention one of the greatest things about the Christmas season in Germany: the Christmas Market! (Weihnachtsmarkt in German) It opens at the end of November and is a really festive way to spend any amount of time. Not to mention all the wonderful food that's available! The only trade-off is getting mulled around in the massive crowds of people leisurely strolling down each aisle checking out what each booth has to offer. Unless of course you're one of those browsing types yourself! Grady and I went mid-day this year to try to avoid at least some of the craziness, but as you can see it's still pretty packed. We've just taken a break to enjoy our bratwursts and gluehwein, although sadly you can't see them in the picture. It's quite cool living in a city with such long running traditions--people come from all over Germany to check out Dresden's market. At 572 years and counting it's one of the oldest in the country! (if not THE oldest, depending on who you ask-!)