LOWER Mainland residents are blessed when it comes to annual holiday attractions.
Grouse Mountain's The Peak of Christmas, Capilano Suspension Bridge's Canyon Lights, Park and Tilford's Holiday Hi-Light Festival, VanDusen Botanical Garden's Festival of Lights and Bright Nights in Stanley Park are a few of the offerings that have long been frequented by area families looking to indulge in a little Christmas cheer.
New on the scene and exhibiting lots of staying power is the Vancouver Christmas Market. The German-themed market debuted last season and has fast become a staple, even earning a spot on Frommer's www.frommers.com list of 10 Spectacular Holiday Markets Around the World. After a recent visit with my extended family, it's easy to see why.
My suggestion for visitors is to go hungry - and thirsty.
First things first, upon arrival, seek out a steaming hot mug of either Feuerzangenbowle, which the market's website describes as, "A traditional German alcoholic drink for which a sugar cube is flambéed with rum, dripping into mulled wine. It is often part of a Christmas or New Year's Eve tradition. The name translates literally to 'fire-tongs punch.'" Another option is Glühwein, another traditional hot beverage made from red wine, cinnamon sticks, vanilla pods, cloves, citrus and sugar.
The souvenir mugs the mulled wines are served in are yours to keep, unless of course you want your $4 deposit back.
Other beverage options include German beers and nonalcoholic choices of course, like specialty coffees.
There are a variety of food options, both savoury and sweet, from raclette and bratwurst to stollen and stuffed baked apples. With so many tasty options it can be a tad overwhelming, but vendors are generous with food samples to help you decide.
At the heart of the market is a carousel offering rides for people of all ages for $3 a pop. As well, live entertainment is offered. During our visit, we were treated to a performance by Breakfast Television's Dawn Chubai and the one and only Dal Richards.
During your visit, be sure to pick up a trinket or Christmas gift or two. A host of traditional ornaments are for sale as well as unique wares, both international and local, like fruit-shaped soap and fair trade coffee.
The Vancouver Christmas Market is open daily from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. until Dec. 23 and 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Dec. 24 at The Plaza at Queen Elizabeth Theatre. Tickets: $5/$2 and children six and under are free. Info: vancouverchristmasmarket. com.
