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…

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…

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…

The German Christmas Shop- For those Special Christmas Memories

You remember it…that Christmas Eve special magic that comes from the movement and light of a spinning Christmas Pyramid. The special “Christmassy” incense smell coming from Santa’s pipe. Finding my favorite special German Ornaments on the tree… and knowing that under the tree in a special box would be one for my tree when I’m grown. The people at The…

Krampus Collection from Rare Dirndl-All Ready for Krampus Season

It’s finally here! The Rare Dirndl Krampus Collection for 2024! You’ll find perfect Krampus Gifts for those who prefer the sugary sweet Christmas Season with a side of menace. There is something special for all ages… from jewelry to coloring books. I love the fun Tee-Shirts and cozy Sweatshirts. And if it’s colder where you are… check out this year’s…

Freimarkt in Bremen- A Market and Fair with 1000 years of History

Most people have heard about Oktoberfest in Munich, but it’s not Germany’s only big Fall Festival. The Freimarkt in Bremen, which starts the second week of October, attracts over 4 million people yearly over its 17 days! What is the Bremen Freimarkt? This 1000-year-old festival is the largest in Northern Germany. Although it started as a “Free Market“, meaning that…

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