This past weekend, the City of Oconomowoc hosted its 14th annual German Christmas Market. Featuring a variety of unique experiences, it was a chance to try authentic European food and drinks, get to shop from several incredible vendors, and listen to some of Wisconsin’s finest live polka music.
The market was held over the course of several days, starting on Wednesday, November 26 through to Sunday, November 30 and closed for Thanksgiving Day. The unique experience was held in the midst of beautiful downtown Oconomowoc.
The market had dozens of vendors set up in a shopping area. Many of them sold high quality, handmade goods that paid tribute to old world craftsmanship by leaning into their European heritage. Some of the offerings included German wood carvings and lace, Polish pottery, wool hats and sweaters, glass ornaments, alpaca items, soaps, and candles.
The food and beverages also allowed businesses to honor European traditions. Returning for their fifth consecutive season, the Weissgerber restaurants brought sausage (wurst), chicken schnitzel, kraut, and strudel. Kleines Bayern Nuts used an authentic Bavarian family recipe on their roasted almonds, pecans, and cashews. Marijo sold his Gluhwein- a traditional mulled wine made with red wine and mulling spices including cloves, grated nutmeg, cinnamon, and mace. Gluhwien is served hot and is the perfect beverage to keep customers warm on chilly winter nights.
Of course, Santa also made an appearance on Friday, Saturday, and Sunday. From his set up in a heated tent, he gave kids a chance to tell him what was on their Christmas list while also offering up a perfect photo op.
European Christmas markets began as late medieval winter fairs, primarily originating in Germanic speaking areas. It gave townspeople a chance to stock up on foods and other goods before the harsh winters ahead. Over time, the fairs added in celebratory aspects in observance of Advent and Christmas. Dresden’s Striezelmarkt, first recorded in 1434, is often cited as one of the earliest true Christmas markets.
Although Oconomowoc is a long way from Dresden, the market has much of the same spirit, joy, and community found in Europe. This annual tradition has become a sacred part of the holidays in Lake Country.
