Category: Germany

Beautiful Christmas Ornaments from Germany

When I think back to my time living in Germany, I don’t just remember the snowy streets or the smell of glühwein wafting through Christmas markets. I remember the sparkle of tiny ornaments that somehow capture the feeling of the season. I only brought three decorations home with me, but each one carries a story

The best Christmas markets in North Rhine Westphalia, Germany

For me, the best part of Christmas in Germany was the Christmas markets. From October, the festive spirit fills the air with streets lit up in Christmas lights, window displays dressed in holiday cheer, and Christmas-themed clothes everywhere. But it was the markets that truly stole my heart. You don’t have to spend much to enjoy them—handcrafted ornaments and delicious treats like bratwurst and Glühwein (mulled wine) make the experience magical. The warmth of the Glühwein alone made me feel like I was glowing!

Living in Essen, in the North Rhine-Westphalia region, I visited several markets before spending Christmas in the Netherlands. Though I admit this list is a bit biased, as these markets are tied to my favorite memories in Germany, they hold a special place in my heart.

Fact Check: Are Germany’s Christmas Markets Really Cancelled in 2025?

The internet is a buzz with a viral post stating that all Germany’s Christmas markets are cancelled this year. This is not true. While social media has been buzzing with stories about cancellations due to “security concerns,” the truth is far less dramatic. Most of Germany’s Christmas markets are still happening in 2025. Only a…

Read More

Cologne Carnival: A Timeless Celebration of Freedom, Satire, and Community

The Cologne Carnival, one of Europe’s largest and most renowned festivals, isn’t just about wild costumes, parades, and parties. At its core, it’s a time-honoured celebration of freedom, satire, and community—a time when the rules of daily life are set aside, and revelers embrace a world of uninhibited fun and self-expression

The history of Germany’s beautiful Gingerbread hearts

Oktoberfest 2019 has kicked off in Münich, Germany. This means it’s time to wear lederhosen guys, dirndls ladies, and to drink lots of beer. Then there’s the wildly popular Lebkuchenhertz, which are sold at Oktoberfest, Christmas markets, and at some bakeries around Germany. Lebkuchenhertz are gingerbread heart cookies; in South Africa, we call them biscuits….

Read More