PLANS UNVEILED FOR NEW ST. NIKOLAUS MARKT

The Fredericksburg Chamber of Commerce has unveiled plans for the new St. Nikolaus Markt, scheduled for Friday, December 4 - Sunday, December 6 at Marktplatz. This family-friendly festival will replace the Weihnachten in Fredericksburg festival. "The new St. Nikolaus Markt will feature an expanded shopping area, focusing on juried vendors offering high quality, unique merchandise for home and gift giving," said Frances Rushing, president of the Fredericksburg Chamber of Commerce. "The spelling of the name 'St. Nikolaus' was chosen to reflect the German heritage of our community," noted Rushing. "St. Nikolaus is the patron saint of children, thus reflecting the family-friendly nature of this festival. St Nikolaus Day in Germany is December 6 when St. Nikolaus visits children and brings candy and small presents. St Nikolaus knows who has been naughty and nice!" The community Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony at Marktplatz will be returning to Fredericksburg's schedule of holiday events as part of the St. Nikolaus Markt. The tree lighting is scheduled for Friday evening, December 4, after the Lighted Community Christmas Parade rolls down Main Street.