KAREN VIBERT-KENNEDY/Sun-Gazette Shoppers explore the booths at the German Christmas Market on Friday in Williamsport. Annie Fogleman showcased her “nisse” on Friday at Williamsport’s first-ever German Christmas Market, known as Weihnachtsmarkt in German. The handcrafted toy — reminiscent of an Elf on the Shelf — originates from Denmark, which is close to Germany and well-liked […]
KAREN VIBERT-KENNEDY/Sun-Gazette
Shoppers explore the booths at the German Christmas Market on Friday in Williamsport.
Annie Fogleman showcased her “nisse” on Friday at Williamsport’s first-ever German Christmas Market, known as Weihnachtsmarkt in German.
The handcrafted toy — reminiscent of an Elf on the Shelf — originates from Denmark, which is close to Germany and well-liked in various European countries.
The Montoursville resident had numerous hand-painted nisses for sale. Her uncle hails from Denmark.
She also offered an advent calendar book.
“This is the first time that I’ve participated in such an event,” Fogleman remarked when inquired if she was a vendor at the German-themed Christkindl Market in Mifflinburg.
KAREN VIBERT-KENNEDY/Sun-Gazette
KAREN VIBERT-KENNEDY/Sun-Gazette
Anna Gruve of Montoursville, right, captures a photo of family members as they peek through a cutout at the German Christmas Market on Friday in Williamsport.
“I thought this would be the ideal spot to showcase them and to share them,” she expressed. “Anyone who stops by and sees them wants to give them to their kids.”
The nisse is known for its playful antics, like sneaking cookies, according to a woman familiar with the toys.
At the entrance of the market, a windmill pyramid or carousel pyramid welcomed guests with its candleholders and lights.
Wooden cutouts were available for children to poke their heads through, becoming the face of a snowman in family photos.
For Carol Johnson, of Williamsport, the city’s German Christmas Market was an excellent opportunity to pick up gifts and decorations for the festivities.
KAREN VIBERT-KENNEDY/Sun-Gazette
Anne Fogleman discusses the handmade Danish “Nisse” dolls available at her stall during the German Christmas Market in Williamsport on Friday.
“We stocked up on the ironware,” Johnson stated. “I purchased this really awesome manger scene and thought her husband required a snow depth item,” she noted, with friends nearby. “You can’t resist buying brittle,” she added, as her friend held a bag of peanut brittle.
The nativity scene will be displayed on Johnson’s porch.
“It’s wonderful,” she said of the first German Christmas Market in her hometown.
“I think — considering it’s their inaugural event, they’ve done a commendable job of bringing it together,” Johnson observed. “I believe it has potential for growth, I really do.”
“It could be a tad warmer, but it’s expected to be like this at these events,” she remarked.
KAREN VIBERT-KENNEDY/Sun-Kennedy
Some of the handmade Danish “Nisse” dolls showcased at Anne Fogleman’s stall during the German Christmas Market in Williamsport on Friday.
While there was no snowfall to make walking the market challenging, a little snow on the ground outside contributed to a festive holiday atmosphere.
“We have visited the Christkindl Market and Wellsboro,” Johnson said. “This is a great start for them, and hopefully, it will flourish here in Williamsport.”
Johnson emphasized the importance of having more chances to engage in activities.
“It’s a lovely, family-friendly environment,” she said, adding there were games and various activities for children as well.
Entry was free. Authentic German food vendors served bratwurst, pretzels, and roasted nuts. Downtown eateries participated with German-inspired food and drinks, accompanied by musical performances.
The market came about through a collaborative effort involving Lycoming College, Lycoming Arts, Downtown Business Association, the City of Williamsport, and Pennsylvania College of Technology’s welding students.
It was operational from noon to 9 p.m. Friday at the college’s commuter parking area, on Mulberry Street and Mulberry Avenue.
Visitors at the market who intended to attend a Christmas Parade had only a short distance to walk.
“As we celebrate our very first German Christmas Market, I want to extend my gratitude to the Williamsport Business Association, Lycoming Arts, Lycoming College, and all of our wonderful sponsors and partners,” stated Williamsport Mayor Derek Slaughter. “Your support has made this event possible, and we are excited to unite our community to kick off the holiday season.
“We anticipate seeing everyone here next year and hope to make the market even larger and more exciting, spreading more holiday joy and spirit throughout our city,” he expressed.
