When I lived in Europe several years ago, I happened to wander upon a beautiful German Christmas Market one snowy afternoon. I became completely entranced by the magic and wonder of this festive event that seemed to pop up out of nowhere. There was delicious German food, entertainment, shopping, and an authentic feeling of holiday cheer. Since returning to Massachusetts, I have searched to find a similar European-style holiday event that embraces some of the holiday spirit that I felt that winter afternoon. While European Christmas markets are much harder to find here in Massachusetts, they do exist. In fact, there is a fantastic one taking place this coming weekend in the town of Walpole.

On Saturday, December 2 (from 12 p.m. - 6 p.m.), the Boylston Schul-Verein, a German-American cultural and social organization, will be hosting its annual Weihnachtsmarkt (Christmas market). The non-ticketed event will take place on the Boylston Schul-Verein’s grounds in Walpole.

The marketplace is a great place to get a start on your holiday shopping. There will be an array of crafts and homemade gifts from various local vendors.

Hippy Pilgrim will be selling seasonings, rubs, garlic salts, and more delicious products.

The Ginger Bird Co. will also be at the Weihnachtsmarkt. This company creates candles, engraved cutting boards, and other fun gifts.

However, what I am most looking forward to is the food! I can’t wait to get ahold of some pierogies and bratwurst. Jaju Pierogi, Boston Nut Roaster, and the Pretentious Pickle Co. are a few of the Weihnachtsmarkt’s 2023 food vendors.

Then there is the sweet stuff! I’m talking homemade German pastries, Liege waffles, and decadent toffee.

No Christmas market is complete without a beer tent, and this celebration is no exception.

Come and sample a variety of German beers, or try some Glühwein (warmed mulled wine). Non-alcoholic drinks will also be available for purchase.

While you are eating, you can sit back and enjoy listening to the music of the BSV Sängerchor Boston German-American chorus.

And be sure not to miss special appearances from the Krampus and Santa himself!

Have you attended the Weihnachtsmarkt Christmas Market in past years? If so, please tell us what you enjoyed best. More information about this festive celebration can be found on the Weihnachtsmarkt Christmas Market event page and the <a href="https://www.facebook.com/events/357678439959903/?acontext=%7B%22event_action_history%22%3A

%7D" target="_blank">Weihnachtsmarkt 2023 Facebook event page.

Other fun Massachusetts holiday events worth attending include Snowport in Boston's Seaport district and Stockbridge Main Street at Christmas. And if you are looking for a way to show off your German Christmas spirit, check out these festive holiday pajamas.