Well, it was not exactly the Return of the Jedi but when I arrived in Leuven before Christmas I found lots of lights at 3 different Advent/Christmas markets.
In European countries with a Christian focus, December marks the beginning of the Advent season which starts four weeks before Christmas. This markets are such a festive way to celebrate the holiday season and it is clear that families and friends enjoy this time to gather and socializing. The many places with food and drink seems to outweigh the booths with Christmas ornaments, candles and hats and mittens.
In Belgium and Germany, gluhwein (hot spiced wine) and beer seem to be the preferred drink. The food ranges from bratwurst to crepes with various fillings to frites to other local specialties. One of my German favorites - just kidding - is lard on rye bread. I ordered this item once not knowing the German word for lard and thought it was a cheese spread. One bite and I knew I was wrong!
In Leuven, the square in front of city hall is decorated with a very large nativity scene, including real sheep. They also bring in dirt, sod and small trees to create a more intimate landscaped setting.
The second market is located in the square in front of the university library with a winter ice theme which includes an outdoor skating rink, an ice slide, ferris wheel and large Christmas tree with ornaments that serve as an amusement ride for small children. And of course, between these attractions are lots of food and drink.
The third location is in the city park with a winding trail of small huts filled with food, drink and gift items. This Christmas market has a stage with an evening entertainment schedule. And on Saturday's and Sunday’s, there can be as many as four different groups performing throughout the day and evening. At night all these places are magical with lights and happy crowds wandering around the paths.
In Belgium and Germany, the last day of the markets is December 23. In Northern Italy and Croatia, they run until Epiphany, January 6. So during December, if you want to meet family or friends for a drink or a quick meal, these Advent/Christmas markets are the place to go!
The University library is to the left of the ferris wheel.
In the picture on the right is the City Hall and to the left the ferris wheel with the University library in the back.
A selfie from the top of the ferris wheel with the library in the background, a picture of the ice skating rink and the Christmas market below and the library and ferris wheel.
Finally, I would be remiss if I did not note the 10 year anniversary of the bike I bought in September 2007 when I started my graduate work in Leuven. A friend stores the bike for me and every year when I return, I put air in the tires and off I go. My 7 speed bike is now a one speed but it still gets me around during my visits.