As an American, the season of Thanksgiving has always been my favorite time of year, with all of its treasured traditions and customs. However, I am now living in Germany, and I have a new favorite season—Christmas. Though my expatriate friends and I still celebrate Thanksgiving, the rest of the continent considers it just another work day. But the Christmas season definitely overshadows all other festive thoughts.

What I’m truly looking forward to are the markets. The Christmas markets make the month of December magical. There are stalls filled with traditional trinkets and ornaments; smells of candied nuts, roasted chestnuts, and Christmas spices; tastes of German wurst, sweet crepes, and hot glühwein (mulled wine) that warms you from the inside out; and sounds of choirs singing and instruments playing in the streets and cathedrals. All of these things completely transport you to an enchanting place. I’m excited for it and so blessed to be able to enjoy it.