Tag Archives: Souvenirs

Schwabinger Christmas Market: Flying High, Yet Down to Earth

Photos courtesy Schwabinger Christmas Market and Thomas Gießner

In times of technical developments and mass produced goods, the Schwabing Christmas Market in Munich, Germany strives to lift the focus to the individuality of arts and crafts.

FLYING HIGH, YET DOWN TO EARTH
This market has caught the imagination of its visitors for decades with a mix of artisans creating art and crafts. The magical atmosphere of the Christmas market with its many culinary delights give it an unmistakable flair.

In addition, visitors can also expect daily music shows, kids’ entertainment and various culinary delights—and all is free of charge.

MUNICH’S FINEST ARTISTS MARKET
More than 100 artists from all over Germany create a place where one can relax and enjoy this unique atmosphere. The concept has been one of an artist’s market from the very beginning. An unmistakable flair can be found here with the high level of artistic talent and craftsmanship. This is further underlined by the quality of the daily cultural programming and fine foods, as well as concerts and various events.

IDEA WAS BORN
In the early 1970’s a number of artists who exhibited during the summer on the “Art Mile” on Leopold Street in Munich began to show their work at the former Swiss House prior to Christmas. In 1975 the idea of an artist’s market, with stalls and events, was born. With the backing of the local council, the Schwabing Chistmas Market was founded. A jury is responsible for choosing the work shown, as well as finding new exhibitors. This ensures that all exhibited work comes from the studios and workshops of the artists.

For more info, go to www.schwabingerweihnachtsmarkt.de/en/info/info.html

Experience Meissen Culture

The Meissen Manufactory in Meissen, Germany, home of the famous Meissen porcelain, should be added to any visit of this German city. Taking a tour of Albrechtsburg Castle, where it all began, is also necessary to learn the origins of this porcelain, followed by a factory tour in town.

At the factory, you can also sign up for special events, such as the two listed below, led by the knowledgeable Beate Debernitz.

TEA, COFFEE AND HOT CHOCOLATE—THE THREE EXOTIC HOT BEVERAGES
Funny and interesting facts about the three exotic hot beverages—tea, coffee and hot chocolate, and about the varied shapes of Meissen tableware are presented in an entertaining manner. Coffee, tea and hot chocolate are served in an appropriate cup of Meissen porcelain, together with a small sweet delicacy. Visitors can enjoy the proverbial Saxon Gemutlichkeit. The tour takes about an hour.

TABLE CULTURE AT MEISSEN
A three-course meal served on famous Meissen porcelain services from three centuries provides pleasant insights into table culture, past and present. Entertaining stories are shared about table culture, table manners and the delights of the table, as well as table arrangements then and now. Duration of the program is approximately two hours.

For more information, go to Meissen.com