German Winter Christmas Market

Every year, during the Winter, the German International School Sydney's (GISS) school grounds are transformed into a magical festive wonderland.  The popular German Christmas Markets provide an assortment of open air market stalls, accompanied by traditional entertainment and food.  However, this year the event not only stretches over two nights, a surprise pop-up ice rink is set to take centre stage!  Children and adults alike can enjoy this cool winter activity right in heart of Sydney's northern beaches!

All the wonderful sights, sounds and smells of the festive season will greet visitors on arrival.  From the sweet aroma of sugared almonds carefully prepared by Year 11 students, accompanied by the sound of traditional winter songs sung during the traditional lantern walk, whilst the Winter Wonderland theme will be a-glow with hundreds of fairy lights and sparkling snowflakes adorning the classrooms and market stalls.  

When darkness falls, a procession of excited children will embark on the customary German Lantern Walk, a walk which has been enjoyed for centuries by German children.  All children are welcome to join the traditional light and sound parade where they'll be guided by vibrant and artistic lanterns (which can be purchased at the market) and sing traditional winter and lantern songs.  After walking up an appetite, the children can gather around a bonfire toasting marshmallows and washing them down with a mug of hot chocolate.

The annual family friendly Winter Christmas Markets have become a tradition with the local community and the German International School Sydney invites Sydney-siders far and wide to celebrate the winter spirit, European? style.  Enjoy tasty German snacks including bratwurst, sauerkraut, corn,   waffles and for the adults, homemade glühwein (mulled wine) and German beer is available.  Stroll the market stalls offering unique gifts such as handmade festive decorations, creative home wares and craftwork.