Birmingham’s Frankfurt Christmas Market claims to be the largest authentic German Christmas market outside Germany and Austria. Wooden huts glow with golden fairylights as visitors enjoy traditional treats like Glühwein (mulled wine) and Bratwurst (grilled sausages). German students studying in Birmingham say it feels close to home. Till Rampe said, "I could swear they are from my hometown." However, Nina Adler notes, "People are just connecting Germany with beer. In Germany usually you drink mulled wine. This is very typical." Unlike German markets that play Christmas carols, Birmingham blares pop tunes. Organiser Kurt Stroscher, also director of Frankfurt's market, ensures stalls are built in Germany and food and drink imported. Katharina Karcher, a German academic in Birmingham, calls it "super authentic." Meanwhile, German Christmas markets open on 24 November with festive food, decorations, and live carols everywhere. Berlin’s Charlottenburg Palace market impresses with traditional foods and a sparkling Ferris wheel. Locals say Christmas markets offer a "fairytale-like feeling" and a festive atmosphere that other winter markets lack. Other UK markets like Kingston upon Thames mix German food with British and Greek dishes, attracting visitors for vibe and variety but drawing some critiques for being less authentic and more commercial. With security higher in Germany after past attacks, the festive spirit remains strong. Visitors welcome more UK markets, noting the charm is in the atmosphere and timing, not just the location. For those craving the Christmas market buzz, Birmingham stands out for authenticity, while many other UK markets offer fun and festive experiences with their own local twists.