As part of a wonderful WASTE Club tradition and initiative, a group of us—students, teachers and staff members alike—ventured to the Ludwigsburg Christmas Market on December 14, 2024. It was a chilly winter evening, and as we arrived, the sight before us was nothing short of enchanting. Rows of intricately decorated wooden stalls concentrated in the market square, shimmering lights on the “angels”, and the aroma of festive treats greeted us warmly.
The Ludwigsburg Christmas Market is unique, themed around Baroque elegance, reflecting the city’s historical charm. The glowing angel lights that adorned the square, located between the churches, and the soft buzz of happy visitors created an atmosphere that was both festive and serene.
We began with a steaming cup of Glühwein, its spiced warmth perfect against the chilly evening air. For those preferring the non-alcoholic route, there was hot cocoa and apple-cinnamon tea to warm the soul. The stalls offered everything from handmade ornaments to artisanal spice blends, which some of us could not resist. Our hot drinks were followed by a trip to the crêpe stall. A debate over sweet and savoury crêpes ensued, with an unofficial decision declaring the victory of the Nutella-banana variant.
What truly set this visit apart was sharing it with our M.Sc. WASTE community. Students spanning across three generations joined the teachers and created a melting pot of memories and stories. At one point, our group danced to the music coming from the stage; hands on shoulders, moving like a train, circling the hot drinks. The camaraderie was heart-warming, as the teachers made us feel like a big, multicultural family.
As the evening drew to a close, we walked to the train station for the city, leaving behind the glittering lights of the Ludwigsburg Christmas Market. On the cold platform, we all took a minute to reflect on the past year and share our feelings with those present, with newfound appreciation for the holiday season.
This visit wasn’t just about experiencing a festive tradition; it was about connection, celebration, and embracing the beauty of cultural exchange.
-By Kazi Akib Bin Asad