heir own celebrations. Many cities host a Weihnachtsmarkt, or Christmas market, during the four-week Advent period before Christmas. These markets are a wonderland for anyone with a sweet tooth. Vendors sell all kinds of cookies, along with ornaments and small gift items. To ward off the chill, shoppers can buy mulled red wine or gluhwine as the Germans call it. Soon after the New Year, carnival festivities get rolling - as if the festivities had even stopped. Originally a pagan celebration, carnival now fits in with the church calendar. The fun comes together in the days before Ash Wednesday. Some say the Fasching revelry is a good way to unwind before Lent, the 40 somber days leading up to Easter. Each region's Fasching traditions are different, so it's worthwhile to visit parades in several cities. The big, elaborate parades in Mainz, Cologne and Munich are the most famous, but people have more fun at the smaller local events. The villages often compete with each other to throw the most entertaining gala. Witches and fools in grotesque masks tease those along the parade route, playing tricks, scaring children and handing out goodies. Fasching is much like Halloween, Easter, and Mardi Gras rolled into one.During day-to-day operations Germans may be more reserved than Americans; however, when the Germans are finished with their daily obligations, they really loosen up. You shouldnt visit Germany looking for sunny, warm weather; but, if you are looking for a good time, Germany is the place to go....
