Christmas markets offer alternative to malls and shopping centers
- 12/1/10
- Categorized in: Lifestyle
If the idea of hitting the malls for Christmas shopping makes you want to utter “Bah humbug,” then a change of venue may put you in a better mood.
Throughout metro Atlanta, there are a number of Christmas and gift markets that are true departures from cookie-cutter stores and big box outlets. Some specialize in handmade crafts, others offer gifts that are far more than sparkle and flash for the recipient.
Here are a few:
German Christmas Market, Thursday, Dec. 2, 2-7 p.m.
Promoters are marketing this as a “true German Christmas Market with traditional food and drinks.” Bratwurst, raclette, waffles, stollen and gluehwein are among the German specialties that will be cooked up to tantalize palates.
Those with shopping on their minds can peruse an assortment of handcrafted European Christmas gifts and decorations. Arts and crafts for children will also be available. And a German church service takes place from 4 to 5 p.m. in the auditorium. Attendees are invited to meet Saint Nikolaus at the end of the service. The mart and service takes place at the Atlanta International School – Plaut Plaza, 2890 N. Fulton Drive in Atlanta.
For more information, visit www.aischool.org orwww.churchvergnuegen.org.
Alternative Gift Market, Saturday, Dec. 4, 10 a.m. – 3 p.m.
For holiday gift giving that promises to make at difference, consider North Decatur Presbyterian Church’s Alternative Gift Market. Shoppers can choose from a selection of merchandise designated as “Fair Trade” and earth friendly such as buying a Heifer Project animal or supporting a local charity in the recipient’s honor. Fresh-pressed apple cider and home-baked breads, cookies and cakes also will be available. North Decatur Presbyterian Church is located at 611 Medlock Road in Decatur.
Swedish Christmas Market, Sunday, Dec.12, 11 a.m. – 4 p.m.
SWEA Atlanta’s traditional Swedish Christmas Market will take place at Trolley Barn in historic Inman Park. This annual event draws many international and American families from across the metro area. Vendors will be selling baked goods, holiday flower arrangements, traditional and modern handicrafts and homemade foods. There will also be a Swedish cafe with traditional food and drink. The Swedish School of Atlanta is hosting different children’s activities and one can even have a picture taken with Sankta Lucia. Admission is $5 for adults, $2 for those ages 12-18 and free for children younger than 12. The Trolley Barn is located at 963 Edgewood Ave. NE in Atlanta.