Twitter
Facebook
Christmas markets can be found throughout Germany and host various food and beverage vendors while providing festive entertainment.
The local market in downtown Kaiserslautern is no exception. The German-American Community Office kicked off the festivities Dec. 6 with songs from American and German choirs and bands.
One can see, smell, taste and simply experience different things no matter what area of the markets they are in. Glühwein or Glühbeer, a hot, spiced wine or beer, potato soup and crepes make up popular beverages and foods that can be found during the markets.
“We provide entertainment on the first Thursday of December,” said Michael Gannon, event coordinator from GACO. “These events help build relationships within the community. The performance groups here are filled with American and German heritage.”
Despite some language and cultural barriers, everyone enjoyed the festive music.
“Music is the universal language, it doesn’t matter what language you speak,” said Paula Parks, member of the Vogelweh Gospel Choir. It’s easy to hear a tune and know the music without understanding any of the words.”
Members of the audience were treated to a mix of English, German and other songs as the choir sang holiday songs in various languages.
“The singing group is made up of more than 40 members of the German and American community,” said Patrick Casey, member of the Rheinland-Pfalz International Choir. “We try to sing pieces in English as well as German and other languages on occasion. It’s a wonderful way to exchange cultures with our counterparts.”
The GACO office that organized the event is located in downtown Kaiserslautern and is here to help Americans become used to the German customs. For more information contact the GACO at www.gaco-kl.de.
