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![Holiday Market 2025: A Celebration of Community]([{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_1/v1766033817/gissv/ebtvseuoqjsu8mc2ti6u/BarakShrama-socialmediaselects-029.jpg","width":256},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_2/v1766033817/gissv/ebtvseuoqjsu8mc2ti6u/BarakShrama-socialmediaselects-029.jpg","width":512},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_3/v1766033817/gissv/ebtvseuoqjsu8mc2ti6u/BarakShrama-socialmediaselects-029.jpg","width":800},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_4/v1766033817/gissv/ebtvseuoqjsu8mc2ti6u/BarakShrama-socialmediaselects-029.jpg","width":1200},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_5/v1766033817/gissv/ebtvseuoqjsu8mc2ti6u/BarakShrama-socialmediaselects-029.jpg","width":1600},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_6/v1766033817/gissv/ebtvseuoqjsu8mc2ti6u/BarakShrama-socialmediaselects-029.jpg","width":2200}])
This year’s German Holiday Market brought together families, students, alumni, and friends for a joyful day of festive cheer, cultural celebration, and community spirit.
The 12th annual GISSV German Holiday Market – Weihnachtsmarkt was truly a day to remember. With an estimated 35,000 visitors from across the Bay Area and beyond, Civic Center Plaza and the surrounding streets of downtown Mountain View buzzed with laughter, music, and the joyful spirit of the season.
The market began with an inspiring opening ceremony, welcoming community leaders who set the tone for the day: Mayor Ellen Kamei, Consulate General Theo Kidess, Superintendent Jeffrey Baier, GISSV Head of School Dr. Wolfram Schrimpf, and Board President Shamala Hinrichsen. Their words reminded us of the power of coming together, celebrating traditions, and creating joy as a community.
Every corner of the market was filled with excitement. Students and staff shared their talents on stage, visitors enjoyed delicious food and drinks, and the youngest guests delighted in games, crafts, and holiday activities. The charming selection of handmade toys, ornaments, and sweet treats offered something special for everyone, creating a truly magical holiday experience.
This celebration would not have been possible without the incredible dedication of the GISSV community. From the youngest performers to the Board of Directors, everyone played a part. Special gratitude goes to the Holiday Market Team Leaders—current and alumni parent volunteers—whose creativity, hard work, and good humor brought the event to life. Countless other volunteers, with or without formal titles, gave their time and energy, helping before, during, and after the market. Their efforts created a seamless, joyful day for all.
A special highlight of the day was the presentation of a Certificate of Commendation from the City of Mountain View to our Head of School and Board President by Mayor Kamei, recognizing GISSV’s years of bringing joy and community spirit to downtown Mountain View. Event Leads Rachel Scott Beckert and Sheila Muto were also recognized on stage for their remarkable dedication.
The GISSV Weihnachtsmarkt has become more than a festive event—it is a heartwarming celebration of togetherness, tradition, and community. The 2025 market reminded us that when people come together with creativity, care, and a shared spirit of joy, something truly magical happens.
Photos:
Daylight: Barak Shrama
Night: Andrea Rowe
