SLOW TRAVEL BERLIN
Christmas Markets begin, across the city, until 6 January, 2013
It’s different for everyone. For some, the first snowfall marks the beginning of the Christmas season. For others, it’s when shopkeepers put out decorations, their store speakers blaring out seasonal tunes.
And a small group of ex-pats consider the Christmas season having arrived once Thanksgiving is done and gone. But there’s one thing that everyone can agree on, and it’s that once the Christmas markets pop up in Berlin, it’s hard not to get swept up in the festive spirit.
Much to the chagrin of any scrooges that may lurk in the city, Berlin has no shortage of Christmas markets. With close to 60 total, the markets take over the Hauptstadt each year, settling in large public spaces like Spandau and Gendarmenmarket, or taking over former palace grounds such as those at Charlottenburg, Britz, and Jagdschloss.
Truth be told, it’s difficult to miss them, even purposely. Some run the entire 6-week period, others only on weekends, and a few last only two or three days. Whether visiting one or five, Christmas markets are a surefire way to spread the holiday cheer. Natalye Childress
Locations and admission costs vary – check website for listings.