User:HelpMeKnow08/Strasbourg-sandbox

Christmas
Strasbourg is consistently chosen as one of the top global destinations for those who want to experience the festivities of a marché de Noël (Christmas market). The Strasbourg Market began in 1570 and is France’s oldest Christmas market. Running from the end of November through most of December, there are actually several nearby Christmas markets in the many squares around Strasbourg's historic centre. They feature hundreds of stalls and decorative wooden booths, called chalets, where artisans sell crafts, food, spices, ornaments and other holiday gifts. Other highlights include a large decorated Christmas tree, a nativity scene in the nearby cathedral, and concerts.

Bicultural Region
Strasbourg is in the eastern region of France that several times has been claimed by Germany. With the oft-changing national borders, you’ll naturally find dual French and German influences throughout the city. Both languages appear on street signs and buildings around Strasbourg. Many structures have a distinctive look of a German village with half-timbered construction. French wine and German beer are both plentiful in Strasbourg and the local cuisine also reflects both countries tastes. A well-known meal of this area is a dish called la choucroute Alsacienne which includes pork, sausage, and sauerkraut. Strasbourg is also known for the somewhat controversial delicacy foie gras. The Local schools teach French, however, it is not uncommon to hear German or Alsacian, a combination of the two languages.

Wine
Wine is plentiful in and around Strasbourg, with a variety of traditional wines such as Pinot Gris, and Riesling, as well as a local variety called Alsace Gewurztraminer. The vineyards of this area emphasize white and sparkling varieties over the reds. The nearby Alsace Wine Route, which has been around for over 60 years, is a popular draw for visitors to Strasbourg. Some of the local and highly rated wineries include:


 * Cave Wolfberger (Wolfberger Cellar)
 * Cave Historique des Hospices de Strasbourg
 * Le Relais des Vignes Strasbourg
 * L'Oenomad


 * Place des Tripiers

Origins and Notable Records for Strasbourg

 * The first documented Christmas trees were seen in Strasbourg in 1774
 * The French national anthem, La Marseillaise written in Strasbourg in 1792
 * Strasbourg Cathedral was the world’s tallest building for 227 years ·
 * Gare de Strasbourg (Strasbourg Train Station), the second largest railway in France, was deemed a Historic Monument in 1984.
 * The white stork is a considered the symbol of the Alsace region.


 * Strasbourg is home to the world's oldest wine barrel, dated 1472.

Film Festival
The Strasbourg European Fantastic Film Festival (abbreviated FEFFS: Festival Européen du Film Fantastique de Strasbourg ) is an annual competition held each year since its inception in 2008. Several filmmakers compete to win the highest award called the Golden Octopus. In addition to the traditional film award categories, FEFFS also hands out awards for video games and virtual reality submissions. Categories and awards include:

Awards

 * The Golden Octopus for the best fantastic film:
 * The Silver Méliès for the best European film:
 * Special Jury Prize:
 * The Audience Award

Awards

 * Crossovers Grand Prix:
 * Special Jury Prize:

Award:

 * The Golden Stork

Awards:

 * The Golden Octopus for the best international short film:
 * The Silver Méliès for the best European short film
 * Made in France:
 * The best animated short film
 * Special Jury Prize for animated film
 * The Grand Est Student Jury Prize:
 * The Audience Award

Awards:

 * The Octopix for the best in indie video game
 * The Audience Award