Christmas marketing in Cologne

One of the things I love about living here is experiencing Christmas Markets.  Even if I were a world traveler (which I never was before), I doubt I would make it to Europe during the Christmas season when the markets are going on.  I think it's pretty special that we have this opportunity.  There are some small Christmas markets in The NL and in Belgium, but Germany is really hopping during Christmas time.  Of all the German Christmas markets, Cologne, Germany probably has the most big markets in one city.  We were warned that it would be way too crowded, especially with kids, but we just had to try and hit up Cologne to do some Christmas marketing.

Since Stephen & Afton were visiting, we thought it would be a great time to go.  With my 2 older kids at school, we loaded up the car nice and early - 4 adults, 4 kids, 4 hour drive.  It actually wasn't too bad.  And with the exception of the cold rainy weather, it was an awesome day...

Keeping the kids happy

Zoey & Aves with Elsie behind

Not sure what the sign says, and Elsie wouldn't get near the Santa

But E was fine with this Santa, oddly

Eyeing all of the yummy treats

Checking out all of the handmade items

And the interesting people

The Cologne Cathedral was huge

And so were the tantrums in said cathedral

Frohe Weihnachten!