Dec 18 2008
Christkindlmarkts
Christkindlmarkts (German Christmas Markets) are a popular draw for tourists to Germany this time of year. Cobblestone streets, wooden stands decorated with lights selling ornaments, candles, and all other kinds of Christmas stuff, and, of course, the German version of fair food—bratwürsts, crepès, potato pancakes and glühwein, deliciously spiced warm wine.
Almost every town in Germany has a Christmas market. The bigger cities, such as Nürnburg and Stuttgart, with larger markets are more well known (and crowded), but every market will be selling traditional German holiday items such as ornaments, children’s toys, wreaths, and advent calendars. The larger markets are open everyday whereas the smaller markets will have more limited opening hours, possibly only on the weekends in the afternoons and early evenings—and some towns only have a one-day market.
Similar markets are also available outside of Germany—Stockholm, Prague, Budapest, and other major European cities have caught on to the German tradition. DERTOUR offers tours to several of these markets (and good information if you want to go on your own).
Germany’s tourism website lists the dates and locations of many of the markets. Start your planning now to attend as many Christmas markets next year as possible!
