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Baumholder
Baumholder Outdoor Recreation, Smith Barracks, Bldg. 816, 485-7182 or 06783-6-7182. Thu. to Mon. 10. a.m. to 6 p.m., Tue. & Wed. closed. https://baumholder.armymwr.com
Valkenburg Caves Christmas Market
Saturday
It must be Christmas time, because once again, the Valkenburg Caves have turned into “Santa’s Home”. Visit stall after stall of Christmas vendors in this unique underground atmosphere, while sampling Dutch specialty foods like mini-pancakes, satay skewers, pea soup, and of course, a steaming glass of mulled wine.
Strasbourg Christmas Markets
Dec. 15
Experience the Christmas markets of France! Strasbourg has been holding its famous Christmas market since 1570, and calls itself the “Capital of Christmas.” More than 60 charitable associations sell goods, organize games and activities, and accept donations with the proceeds going towards their noble and worthy causes in seven different Christmas Markets. Strasbourg’s Christmas is truly something special.
Kaiserslautern
Kaiserslautern Outdoor Recreation, Pulaski Barracks, Bldg. 2905, 493-4117 or 0631-3406-4117. Mon. to Fri. 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Closed on federal holidays. https://kaiserslautern.armymwr.com
Dahn Rock Hike
Saturday, 8 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Towering red sandstone walls surround the village of Dahn south of us in the Palatinate Forest. Lace up your hiking boots and stretch out your legs in the fresh air of the Pfalz with Ramstein Outdoor Recreation. An ~ 12 km loop leads us to some of the highlights of the region including sandstone spires, arches, and sheer walls framed with dense coniferous forest. A restaurant nicely positioned along the route for a refueling stop (and a Hefe-pilsner?) to boost your energy for the terrain ahead. Dress for the forecast and bring snacks and water to suit your needs. Cash Euro for restaurant along route. Cost: $29.00 (incl. transportation and guide), Ages: 10+ with parent
Christmas Shopping in London
Dec. 13 to 16
Oxford Street, Europe’s busiest shopping street is home to over 300 stores, including the flagships of Debenham’s, Grace Brothers, House of Fraser and Marks & Spencer. If that isn’t enough Christmas shopping for you, the shopping continues on nearby Regent street, already famous for it’s annual Christmas lights and even spills onto Bond Street. Cost: Starting at $479 per person
Christmas In Rome
Dec. 21 to 26
One of the greatest places in the world to celebrate Christmas in is Rome! Exploring the Eternal City during the holiday will make this your most memorable Christmas ever. Cost: Starting at $599 per person
Ramstein
Ramstein Outdoor Recreation, KMC Center, Bldg. 3336, 480-5705 or 06371-47-5705. Mon. to Fri. 11 a.m. to 8 p.m.; Sat., Sun., holidays and training days 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. https://www.86fss.com/sports-and-recreation/outdoor-recreation
Cologne & Düsseldorf Xmas Markets
Sunday
On this trip from Kaiserslautern Outdoor Recreation you will spend your morning exploring the five different markets in Cologne, underneath the largest Christmas tree in the Rhineland. But your day isn’t done yet. After a short warm up on our bus, you will find yourself in Düsseldorf, where seven more unique markets await you. Cost: $79 per person
Garmisch Ski Weekend
Dec. 22 to 25
Enjoy Christmas Weekend in Garmisch-Partenkirchen! Known not as just a German ski resort, but THE German ski resort. Whether you are tackling top to bottom ski runs in the “Classic Valley”, basking in the sun on the summit of the Zugspitze, Germany’s highest peak, hiking the beautiful Partnach Gorge, or enjoying the scenery at one of Garmisch-Partenkirchen’s traditional Christmas markets, you will find something to take your breath away. Cost: Starting at $429 per person
