She said: I will meet you on the steps of the Frauenkirche.
I remember hoping she would not be late because there was no doubt we would be early. Today was a chance to revisit my childhood, and a Christmas tradition from that time. The Christkindlmarkts of Germany are the most notorious gathering places during the holidays, with the oldest and most famous in Nuremberg. 
You would think shopping might be the motivation. The lights, colors, and unique gift ideas tempt the most unlikely shoppers, as there is something for everyone.
But the smells of the candied almonds, roasted chestnuts, bratwurst, and gluhwein permeate the streets, luring the foodies in our group to bask in the tastes of the season. It is the same as I remember.
What makes it special is the city centers are often the gathering places for family and friends during the holidays. For me, it is my favorite communal gathering place in the world and it was exactly as I remembered it. I loved that back in time moment, and the discovery of quieter, quainter markets in the tiny villages, all with their unique personality…. 
…with one common theme…to gather.
Donna
And make sure you visit the forest market here …. WaldWipfelWeg. I promise it will warm your soul.
The Daily Post: Communal
Wind Kisses 
Thank you for sharing! What lovely photos and memories!
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We lived in Germany for 9 years off and on and are still using a candle pyramid we bought way back in 1978. It’s travelled the world with us and the biggest difficulty is trying to get candles to fit. The Spandau, Berlin speciality was Pea and Ham soup. Thick, steaming hot, and a meal on it’s own then washed down with a cup of Gluhwein.
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Such a great place for visiting during the time of year. You must have loved living there! I lived near Nurnberg for 4 years. As for the candle pyramid….we discovered they sell the candles at käthe wohlfahrt. (online) We have to order each year because we also love ours so much.
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Christmas market ‘Winterval’ has been growing in popularity in Waterford city about 1 hour from home and it’s a lovely way to pass a few hours soaking in the atmosphere and admiring beautiful crafts.
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My goal is to spend Christmas in Germany, so I can peruse the Christmas markets.
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Yes. It is so unique and what I love is it is almost unchanged over the years. Festive fun and beautiful! Definitely plan it!
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Going to a Christmas Market in Europe is in my “to do” list in my life. The decorations make it so magical and I guess my vision of Christmas.
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oh, this was so nice…thank you for all the photos…so festive!
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Thank you. I wish it was closer, it is that festive.
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