German cities and towns celebrate Christmas in a ...

German cities and towns celebrate Christmas in a big way, gearing up with Christmas markets from the end of November each year. The world-famous, traditional "Christkindlesmarkt" in Franconian Nuernberg attracted about 2.3 million visitors in 1996. Christmas markets, often held in historic squares, feature lavishly-decorated stands, handicraft and folklore presentations, the sound of trombones, Advent songs, and culinary treats.