Today, we are one day closer to 2021! Our December 4th global gifting suggestions come to us from Germany via Ulrich Wandel, MBA ’88 and Marlon Johns, a current Human Physiology student. Following their personal gift picks, Ulrich and Marlon have also shared some information about popular gifting holidays in Germany.
Marlon Johns is a junior at the UO where he is studying Human Physiology. He is also a newlywed! Marlon got married earlier this year. His interests include German history (the Roman Empire, World Wars I and II); apartheid and its continued influences and impacts; family history; the European Union; modern political geography, and education. Some of his other hobbies and interests include lifestyle and health; traveling; German music and food; soccer, and martial arts. Marlon is a recipient of the highly competitive International Cultural Service Program scholarship.
Ulrich Wandel, MBA ’88
Entrepreneur, skier, and globetrotter
My top gifts: Trends and traditions
Lebkuchen
Lebkuchen is a gingerbread-like cookie that is made with and nuts as well as almond paste and candied citrus peel. All of this deliciousness sits on a wafer base. The special spice mix we use for this and other spices treats is called Lebkuchengewurz and contains cinnamon; allspice, cloves, coriander; star anise; ginger; mace; cardamom, and nutmeg. You can try making Lebkuchen with this recipe.
Handicrafts
There are many popular German handicraft items at Christmastime. This is part of what makes a visit to Germany’s Christmas Markets such a unique experience. Handicraft items can be handmade ornaments, blown glass, handcrafted wooden furniture, and more.
Outerwear and gear for skiing
Germany has many beautiful ski resorts – several of them, such as Oberjoch, Obsterdorf, and Alpsee-Grünten are only a few hours from my home.
In a place blessed with so many great slopes and resorts, outerwear and equipment for skiing are popular gifts!
My top gifts: Personal picks
Family Vacation
I love to travel. Getting away somewhere – just about anywhere – with my family is one of the best gifts I can think of.
A visit to Oktoberfest in Munich
Everyone knows Oktoberfest. although Oktoberfest celebrations happen all lover the U.S., nothing beats the original in Munich! Most of the famous Oregon microbreweries – including Eugene-based Ninkasi Brewing Company- make their own Oktoberfest beers. I will be happy when large gatherings like Oktoberfest can take place again – it of course did not take place in 2020.
A Skiing Trip to Colorado
Did I mention that I enjoy traveling? And skiing? The photo I shared for this Gifting Guide was taken at the top of Mont Blanc. It is the tallest mountain in the Alps range at 4,808 m / 15,774 ft. That is taller than any mountain in the continental U.S. For my next ski trip, I would like to hit the slopes in Colorado.
A trip to Oregon in the summer
I remember my days in Eugene fondly and look forward to my next Oregon visit. A summer visit would be my favorite – the weather and the scenery are just perfect at that time!
Marlon Johns
Current UO Human Physiology student, history buff, and newlywed
My top gifts: Trends and traditions
Business calendars and photo calendars
Personalized calendars with photos including friends and loved ones have been becoming more popular in Germany lately.
Marzipan
Marzipan candies are a favorite in Germany! The marzipan almond paste with sugar or honey can be dipped in/covered with chocolate, caramel, and more. You can try making homemade marzipan with this recipe.
Candles
Most people are familiar with the traditional German Christmas trees decorated with burning candles. Electric candles are increasingly popular, but candles are still used.
There is also a traditional wreath with candles called an adventskranz. On each of the four advent Sundays leading up to Christmas, another candle is lit.
Candles make a nice traditional gift – not only for the activities above, but also to warm our homes in this cold and dark season!
My top gifts: Personal picks
Fancy Cheeses
I love all kinds of fancy cheeses! For those who are not familiar, some of the most famous German cheeses include gouda, butterkäse, romadur, harzer, and cambozola (or blue brie).
Lego sets for children
Lego sets are a fun toy that children like. It allows them to work with their hands, use their imaginations, and learn – all at the same time!
Rum truffles/pralines
Rum and pralines are something everyone needs to try. They are amazing. That is all 🙂 If you want to try and make them yourself, a good recipe is here.
Gifting in Germany
Germany’s primary gifting season is the Christmas season (celebrating the birth of Jesus Christ), with gifting days on Saint Nicholas’ Day (December 6th) and Heiliger Abend (Christmas Eve, December 24th). Chartiable is emphasized on both Heiliger Abend and Dreikönigstag (Three Kings Day or Epiphany), which falls on January 6th. Marlon shares that, for him, the Christmas season is, “about focusing on family and friends and appreciating what I have.”
Ostersonntag (Easter), which celebrates the resurrection of Jesus Christ after his crucifixion, is another important gifting holiday. Gifts are given by those of all ages and relationships.
