The Advent brings in its trail Christmas markets that combine food, drinks, grand pageantries, shopping with a dash of tradition and ritual, all under the open sky. They are usually held in town squares which are easily accessible to a large number of people. Some of the popular Christmas markets are listed below. Nuremberg – “Cristkindlmarkt”, as the Christmas market in Nuremberg is called, is held amidst a fairy-tale like ambience. It draws visitors from all across the globe because of the rich assortment of Christmas goods that are on sale in the 200 odd shops here. The aroma of gingerbread, sausages, sweet roasted almonds and mulled wine tickles the olfactory nerves. The festive cheer shoots up with the visitors browsing through the gift shops. Dresden - It is the oldest Christmas market in Germany. The brightly embellished Christmas tree and the tallest Christmas pyramid are the major attractions. Not to forget the traditional wooden handicrafts, artistic Christmas arches, Christmas tree decorations, gingerbread and Dresden Christstollen (German Christmas cake). You can't afford to miss the Pyramid Festival and the Stollen Festival. Chicago – Christkindlmarket or Christmas market is possibly the grandest open-air extravaganza with a rich and unique selection of exquisite gift items. Everything from home décor to sweaters, scarves and jewelry from around the world can be pocked up from here. German and European delicacies will only have you craving for more. It is a two-week long festival holding out the promise of optimum enjoyment. Cologne – The sights and sounds associated with the quintessential German Christmas can be found in the heart of Cologne. The 24-metre fir tree is the major attraction of the Roncalliplatz market. Mulled wine or a glass of “Kolsch” beer will bring you to Neumarkt. Rudolfplatz is a hot favorite with the kids because of its fairy tale ambience. Travour provides a comprehensive overview of the Christmas markets around the world.