A bazaar featuring a variety of delicious German food and exquisite handicrafts recently began in Shinan district, Qingdao, Shandong province, attracting locals and foreigners alike.

The bazaar has a history of about 800 years, originating in the late Middle Ages in Germany and Austria. The first session in Qingdao was organized by a German in 2006, and the 13th event is being held this year.

Several new elements were featured in this year's bazaar, including a choir and unplugged shows given by bands.

A variety of delicious German food and exquisite handicrafts are on offer at a bazaar held in Shinan district. [Photo/WeChat account: qdweishinan]

"It's great to have a chance to experience a foreign culture, and the dolls knitted with wool impressed me a lot," said a visitor from Inner Mongolia.

A German merchant said that he has taken part in the bazaar every year since its first session, and that the toys he sells always prove popular among children.

"The bazaar attracts people from around the country, and this is the only one in China that I know of. Anybody can participate for free," said the founder of the bazaar.

The bazaar will run until Dec 8, and is open every Friday, Saturday, and Sunday from 10 am to 10 pm.