I remember the first time I saw a Strandkorb (a “Beach Basket”) on the beach. Since I grew up in California, it was a bit confusing. When we went to the beach, we just needed a few towels, a cooler with drinks and snacks, MAYBE a folding chair (if you felt like schlepping it), and possibly a sun umbrella to…
Author: karenanne
Tanzmariechen- Those Fabulous Karneval Dancers!
Ever wonder about those beautiful dancing girls in “military uniforms” at Karneval/Fasching celebrations? They march and move in perfect synchronicity and even tumble through the air without landing on their head. But did you know that these “Tanzmariechen” or “Funkenmariechen” are more than just a pretty face and fun dance moves? Their history reaches back almost 200 years to early…
What is Smoked Beer? A Visit to Schlenkerla in Bamberg!
I admit, I had never heard about smoked beer until a few years ago when I was out to dinner with my parents. My father was so excited to find Schlenkerla Rauchbier on the menu! He had enjoyed it years before when stationed in Bamberg, but had never seen it in the US before. Then, I took a beer tour…
Why is New Year’s Eve called Silvester in Germany?
In Germany, New Year’s Eve is called Silvester, but WHY? My parents always celebrated New Year’s Eve with a party, but a Silvester Party? (I mean, “Who is this Sylvester, and why does he get a party?“) The whole thing is confusing. Fortunately, there is an easy explanation! And it all dates back to a pope and a change in…
What is Raclette Cheese? Cheesy German New Year’s Eve Tradition
Whenever anyone asks me, “What’s your favorite kind of Cheese?” I automatically answer, “The melted kind.” And yes, I have the kind of family that loves cheese, eats loads of cheese, and spends a lot of time talking about cheese. No wonder there were loud CHEERS when I brought the Raclette Grill home. Where has this lovely dish been my…
A German Christmas Market Tour – Magic, Food and lots of Glühwein
I spend more time regretting the things I didn’t do than I regret the mistakes I may have made. That’s why when I got an email about taking a German Christmas Market Tour only days before it started, I only hesitated long enough to clear it with my family. After all, a week away in December (well, 10 days with travel),…
Gebrannte Mandeln- German Roasted Almonds Recipe
Visit any German Christmas Market, German Fest, or Fair, and you will smell the sugary, cinnamon, nutty scent of Gebrannte Mandeln. I’m certain they waft the smell around to lure you in (and it works). Grab a bag to munch as you shop—Crunchy, sweet, nutty, and so very delicious. But there is no reason to wait until your next visit…
Leckerlee Lebkuchen – Authentic German Lebkuchen Made in America
It starts with the smell of spices… ginger… is that cardamom? And then you take that first bite. “oh my gosh”. You get the nuts and citrus. The texture is amazing. I’ve been eating Lebkuchen my whole life, but outside of a German Christmas Market, I’ve never had it as fresh or flavorful as Leckerlee Lebkuchen. This is Lebkuchen baked…
The German Christmas Shop Favorite Christmas Memory Giveaway 2019
I’m excited to announce The German Christmas Shop Favorite Christmas Memory Giveaway! Share your favorite Christmas Memory (in 25 words or less) and you might win a $300 Gift Voucher to The German Christmas Shop! Contest runs from November 21 until November 30, 2019. On December 1, 2020 we will announce the winner of a $300 Gift Voucher!…
Where did the Christmas Tree Originate? In Germany of Course!
In modern times, we see the Christmas Tree as the symbol of the Christmas Season. Whether you decorate it with fabulous blown glass ornaments or hand-made ornaments that the kids made at school, there it is! A tree in your home. Maybe your Christmas Tree is covered in lights, glass ornaments, and tinsel, or you prefer the more child-friendly wooden…