Over 7,000 visitors enjoyed the magic of the 2018 German International School Sydney’s (GISS) annual Winter Christmas Market last weekend.

Thanks to the generous support of the Christmas Market’s main sponsor Audi Australia, many parent and student volunteers, GISS staff, local community and other gold sponsors including The Belrose Hotel, Top 3 by design, Amazon.com.au, Beiersdorf, the school was able to reach a new fundraising record that will be used to help fund a new school kiosk and improve other school facilities.

Whilst the giant snow globe, marshmallow roasting and lantern walks were the highlights for little ones, most visitors were drawn to the scenic winter wonderland and the many market and food stalls that ranged from delicious waffles, roasted almonds and mulled wine to a banquet of hearty German delights.

Part of the school grounds were transformed into a festive Winter Wonderland where visitors could enjoy Christmas performances in both English and German under twinkling stars and thousands of sparkling lights. GISS Principal, Dr Lorenz Metzger commented: “Featuring an array of family friendly attractions, the Christmas Market was a hit for young and old. We can be very proud of this unique event taking place in the greater Sydney area, which this year has grown to new dimensions. It strengthens the School’s identity and brings people together far beyond its community.”

Visitors were entertained by a magic elf, balloon and hula hoop shows, authentic Swiss Alphorns and Bells and the School’s own choir, Drumming and Dance groups, heartwarming musical performances by GISS students and a wonderful dance routine by the Special Olympics Dance Group. Market goers could also partake in many activities such as a puppet theatre, art and craft work shop, Scholastic Bookfair, face painting, games in the sports hall, Subbuteo, trampoline bungee, ride on rolling animals, giant slides, 7D cinema and our popular second-hand books and games stalls.

With temperatures below 10ºC toasting marshmallows over the two bonfires was a treat, all under the safety and supervision of the Terrey Hills fire brigade. Dee Why Police also joined the festivities and queues were formed by the many children who wanted to inspect the fire trucks and police cars.

To accompany the toasted marshmallows, kids could enjoy a hot chocolate while adults were beating off the cold with a mug of Glühwein (mulled wine). There was also an abundance of tasty German food to devour, including Thüringer Bratwürste, Sauerkraut, Leberkäse, Brezeln, Kartoffelpuffer (potatoes cakes) and the ever so popular pea soup.

Aside from the many attractions and food stalls, it wouldn’t be a Christmas Market without a variety of unique stalls, reminiscent of an authentic European Christmas Market. Dressed in fairy lights, each stall boasted high quality craftwork, including local produce, handmade festive decorations, homewares, jewellery and toys.

Principal, Dr Lorenz Metzger commented: “I would like to thank all students, parents, teachers, GISS staff and friends without whom our Christmas Market wouldn’t be possible. A special thanks must go to our main sponsor Audi Australia and other friends of GISS including The Belrose Hotel, Beiersdorf, Amazon.com.au, BelleDonne, The German Consulate General, Goethe Institute, The German Tourism Office, Sport Star Academy, Vegan Meals Delivered and the German Butchery. We are already excited to welcome you again next year.”

The 2019 GISS Christmas Market will be held on 16th and 17th of August, so save the date in your calendar.