It has begun...

It seems like it was just yesterday that I was writing about the Christmas markets in Paris. Well here we are again. Two weeks ago the Champs Elysees market stalls opened for business.
More markets will be opening up in the various arrondissements around Paris, all spreading the Christmas cheer. It's seems a bit early - hearing Christmas carols in November, but it looks quite enchanting at night. We went with the children and they were excited to see that the ice-skating rink is larger this year. There is a menagerie of animals; reindeer, bears and lions that has found its place at the market this year.
Another interesting addition which young children may find interesting is the  presence of a real-life Santa...in a snow globe. The vendors are yet again cheerfully plying their wares - from Christmas decorations and handmade chocolates to the more practical stuff like  hats and handmade soaps.
There are plenty of food stalls - with the usual artery-clogging fare - everything from hot dogs and churros to doughnuts and pots of hot chocolate. As the temperatures drop even further, the stalls that are selling the vin chaud should see a booming trade.
I am still hoping to make it to the Strasbourg Market - a year later and I am still singing the same song. Here's hoping...