Now that the first semester is over, I am free to enjoy the holiday, although I must confess I've been spending a lot of time at the German Christmas Market. Edinburgh knows how to throw a great Christmas Festival, complete with a large, lighted ferry, carnival, outdoor ice skating rink, and both a Scottish and German Market. Each year, vendors from Germany are invited to come to Edinburgh's center to sell delicious foods, crafts, and mulled wine. My grandmother was from Germany and the market reminds me of her. They have the best bratwurst I have ever tasted and large, delicious pretzels which I haven't found anywhere else in Edinburgh.
The Castle is highlighted in blue (seen in the last picture) and adds to the wonder and magic of this market. Bryan and I tried to ice skate and were somewhat successful. I didn't fall at all but I haven't mastered how to stop. It's the iconic image of Christmas. Here's a clip of some carolers singing:
Edinburgh also throws a world famous and week long party for New Years called Hogmanay. There's a torch procession that kicks off the celebrations. The people line the streets of the historic Royal Mile with lit torches in hand and escort a large straw bull up to Carlton Hill. The bull is then lit on fire followed by fireworks. It is sure to be fun!! I also have tickets to the New Years Eve street party. Fireworks go off from the Castle at midnight. People come from all over Britain and Europe for this party. I am so excited, but a little apprehensive of all the drunkenness that is sure to come. I am glad I will have Bryan there as my bodyguard! I'll be sure to take pictures and post them of the fireworks. Until then Merry Christmas!!
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