Second Avenue in Goodhue was lined with vendor booths on December 3rd for the second annual German Christmas Market event. In spite of cold weather, a good crowd gathered when the Christkindlmarkt opened at noon. Among the vendors were those selling home-made craft items, care products for people and pets, and Girl Scout and 4-H club fundraisers. Shoppers were greeted with Christmas music playing through speakers on the North end of the street and a karaoke booth on the South end with German food and fire barrels for warm socializing in between.
The Third Place was another popular spot to warm up while viewing the display of Nativity scenes from around the world. The scenes were on loan from several area residents and ranged from miniature to near life-size from places like Alaska, Aruba and Kenya. An interesting note explained that the first Nativity scene was created over 800 years ago to help children understand the true meaning of Christmas. During the event, children could participate in the “reindeer games” set up outside behind The Third Place.
Visitors of all ages enjoyed horse-drawn wagon rides and the 25-foot Christmas tree that was brought into The Depot lot for the season. The museum was open during the event as were local businesses, some of which offered special promotions.
