Christkindlmarkt 2011

By Matthew Brown
photos by Matthew Brown and Susan Brown

The spirit of the Christkindlmarkt has always been one of hope and joy. A Christkindlmarkt is a European tradition that celebrates not only the Advent season but, for the people who attend it has always been a way to come together to enjoy the sights, sounds, smells and tastes of the Christmas season. Traditionally the Christkindlmarkt is held for the entire period of Advent.

Here at First Baptist Church, in Richmond, Virginia, we have started our own Christkindlmarkt tradition. Our second Christkindlmarkt was held in the courtyard and around the corner of Monument Avenue and Boulevard. The crisp morning air for this outdoor market was met with many warm smiles from children and families as they made their way to and from the Richmond Christmas Parade.

There were many vendors present to lift the spirits, from the whimsical to the practical. There were vendors selling crafts and home baked goods, wreaths and Christmas trees. There was plenty to eat. There were Panini sandwiches, warm soups, cookies and brownies, just to name a few. There was an appearance by the German Saint Nicholas and by the American Kris Kringle.

Hot chocolate and the Meadow Street band helped keep everyone warm as they sipped and tapped their toes to the beat. The warm sun also did its part in warming and setting on what was the best First Baptist Church Christkindlmarkt, yet!

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