My daughter and I just got home from an amazing trip to visit the Christmas Markets in Germany. A friend who lives there invited us to join her for a week, and we were delighted to do so! Lots of people were excited for us, saying it would be such a fun thing to do with my baby girl. Many people were envious because this was a bucket list trip for them, and they couldn’t wait to see my photos. Some others, of course, totally tried to tell me it would be dangerous, or too hard to go so far with a baby, or they would never do that and could never understand why I would want to. Well, for everyone with an opinion, here are six reasons why you should take your baby to Germany’s Christmas Markets!
Because Babies are Cute in Winter Gear
It’s cute baby hat season! Or, um, it’s Christmas! Same thing. Yes, they’re bulky and harder to pack than summer bubbles and tiny onesies, but wow–they are so cute! Knit gnome hats, pants with ruffles, sweater-style dresses with little gnomes on them, tiny Christmas sweaters, baby coats with too-long arms. Does it get cuter than a baby in winter clothes? I don’t think it does! I took all the cute Christmas- or winter-themed outfits my daughter has, and we almost wore them all during the week-long trip. She got many compliments everywhere we went, of course.
(Coming soon) More here: Winter Gear for Traveling Babies
Because Babies Make Germans Smile and Laugh
Germans are known for stern looks, gruff accents, and an intimidating vibe. But throw a baby in the mix, and they all melt like cheese on a pile of potatoes. Iris is a “people baby,” and will literally wave at anyone, even when they’re not making eye contact. When she waved her friendly little hand at all the people within sight, she got all the smiles and coos and little waves back you could imagine. She made so many friends–including a new “boyfriend” who gave her a stuffed lion! Babies give everyone a reason to smile and laugh. How can you deprive them of such joy?
Keep reading: What to Know Before You Visit German Christmas Markets
Because the Christmas Markets are Full of “First” Opportunities
This was not my baby girl’s first Christmas, but she thought it was! She got to enjoy her first crepe, first carousel ride, first baby-ccino (steamed milk in an espresso cup for a baby!), first castle sighting, first schnitzel, first cookie (she swiped it before I could stop her), and of course, her first Christmas Market! I had so much fun finding things that would delight Iris, from live Christmas music in front of a Christmas tree in a hotel lounge to watching the lights on rotating “pyramids” at every market. Watching her watch new things is my favorite.
(Coming soon) More here: What to Know Before You Visit Germany with a Baby
Because It’s Easy to Visit Lots of Christmas Markets
The nice thing about Germany, and Europe in general, is how easy it is to base yourself in one location, then explore several more places on day trips. We stayed in Wiesbaden and took the train to Mainz and Rüdesheim, then rented a car to take a longer day trip to Strasbourg, France. We had the option to take a couple more day trips, but we liked Wiesbaden, so we took the opportunity to have a couple of restful days there exploring their Christmas Markets. It’s nice to have options, and Germany gives you those!
(Coming soon) Read on: Where I Took my Baby for German Christmas Markets near Frankfurt
Because Christmas is for Little Ones
Christmas is for everyone, but the magic is for the little ones–babies, toddlers, and little kids. Many towns even have designated children’s Christmas Markets, featuring children’s toys, gifts, sweets, and activities. And don’t forget the kinderpunsch! It’s the non-alcoholic beverage alternative to glühwein, served in the same small mugs as the grown-up beverages. What better place to celebrate the season than towns that quite literally turn into Christmas wonderlands for the holiday?
Also helpful: 10 Reasons to Visit Heidelberg, Germany
Because Even Though They Won’t Remember, You Will
This is the crux of it, right? You want to make the memories with them, even though their little memories haven’t developed yet. They’ll see the pictures one day, and you’ll tell them about how fun it was–and about that blowout that happened at the most inopportune time! And remember: Travel shapes little brains and forms well-rounded future adults. They don’t have to remember the details to be affected by their experiences.
Essential reading: 7 Reasons Single Parents Should Travel with Their Kids
Want more? Check out my dedicated Germany Page!
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