When the Sidewalks Roll Up

My parents sometimes talk about the days when it was normal for all the businesses to close. When buying groceries or going to a movie theater on Sunday wasn’t an option because the businesses shut down and families spent the time together. They joke about the sidewalks rolling up.

I’ve never experienced this to its fullest until now. I remember alcohol stores closing on Sundays when I was younger, but that’s slowly changed. The only thing I can think of that still closes across the industry—and no matter what state you’re in—are motorcycle shops. They still close Sundays and Mondays. Perhaps because we bikers are a stubborn lot and we enjoy riding days. But I digress.

Needless to say, it’s been an adjustment to find the sidewalks roll up on Sundays and holidays in Germany. Everything but restaurants close for the day. There’s a feel to these days. An almost rolling back of time to a place where families walked together to the local bistro for handmade ice cream or rode bikes to the next village over simply because the day was filled with sunshine and an irresistible draw to be outside in its warmth.

We were “warned” when we arrived about the German Quiet Times. And there is some need of the warning as being loud over a certain decibel can get the Polizei called on you. So, no mowing your lawn or playing loud music.

But personally, I find “warning” too strong a term. Or the wrong term altogether. It’s an invitation. A welcome to sit in the market square, or Marktplatz, and enjoy a cup of coffee and a pastry. (Restaurants are the only thing open, but keep in mind, the kitchens close between 2pm and 5pm). An encouragement to follow the walking path through the woods and take in the blooming dogwoods, watching the white petals break lose and float on the wind. This might sound overly idyllic or exaggerated, but I’ve sat in just such a market square café and had to pick white petals out of my drink.

If you ever have the opportunity to visit Germany, I encourage you to visit the bakery early Saturday morning. It won’t be open Sunday. Then enjoy the Sunday quiet time. Find a local restaurant, listen to the bells sing, and breath in the calm that comes with all the sidewalks being rolled up around you.