London
The UK capital has switched on the Christmas lights and London’s Hyde Park has been transformed into a winter wonderland. There are decorations and gifts galore in all the stores.
Stockholm
Above all, Christmas in Stockholm means candlelight and hearty food. As it gets dark here early, the city puts on an impressive light show. Typically Swedish: glögg, spicy gingerbread and Yule goats.
Germany
Stollen, spiced mulled wine and gingerbread: For many in Germany, these items symbolize Christmas time. But how did these treats come to represent the holidays? Experts say the answer dates back to the 14th century.
Gift giving
Gift giving is a big part of Christmas. The Viadrina Museum in Frankfurt an der Oder is now devoting an entire exhibition to this custom. Presents from decades past are on display.
Ornaments for the Christmas tree
In the 19th century, a glassblower from Lauscha decided to use glass to make ornaments for the Christmas tree. They soon became a huge success around the world and are still made by hand in Lauscha today.
Christmas Light Display
Rolf Vogt of Lower Saxony doesn’t skimp when it comes to his Christmas lights. He’s spent over 150,000 euros to cover his house in Calle with over half a million colored lights on 4.3 kilometers of cables.
Nuremberg
The southern German town of Nuremberg has been known for its gingerbread since the Middle Ages. It’s a Christmas specialty that can be enjoyed at the local festive “Christkindlesmarkt”.
Russia
It’s Christmas time in Russia, and one Christmas tradition has people braving the cold for hours on end. Competitive fishing at Christmas even managed to survive seventy years of Soviet rule. Who will catch the elusive “Christmas fish” this year?
Amsterdam
During the advent season Amsterdam’s canals are illuminated by beautiful lights. Other season’s traditions include drinking eggnog, eating delicious Pepernoten cookies and going ice-skating in front of the Rijksmuseum.
Prague
Zurich
During advent in Zurich, the city lights up like a Christmas tree. It’s a magical place, with its market, circus, and of course, cheese fondue. And what better way to digest than a stroll through the brightly-lit city?
Vocabulary in Chunks 