5 Best German Christmas Markets

 

Yes, it’s that time of the year again! Can you believe Christmas is almost upon us? And While other countries draw crowds with their holiday traditions, no one does Christmas quite like Germany. If you are wondering what are Christmas Markets and what is the hype , let me help you. A Christmas market (also known as Christkindlmarkt, Marché de Noël, Christkindlmarket, and Weihnachtsmarkt) is a street market associated with the celebration of Christmas during the four weeks of Advent. It is said that these markets originated in Germany. SO you can imagine the importance – fun – and beauty of these markets that run through the festive holiday from the end of November until the beginning of January. German-style Christmas markets are resonating outside Germany. But the real thing is still in Germany.All the hallmarks of your favorite yuletide carols can be found at these markets, including chestnuts roasting on an open fire. Add spiced mulled wine, sizzling bratwurst, artisan crafts, and wintertime activities and you’re on your way to getting into the Christmas spirit German-style, one merry market at a time. These markets are meant to be seen, smelled, tasted and totally experienced. If you are in Germany and lucky to be there in this very season , here are the 5 best  German Christmas Markets that you should not miss.

 

1) Stuttgarter Weihnachtsmarkt :

Well talking about Germany in Xmas , this has to be on top your list. Everything about this Xmas market is magical. Considered by many Germans to be one of the most traditional markets in the country dating back to as early as 1692, the Stuttgarter Weihnachtsmarkt has nearly 300 stalls set against the backdrop of an old castle. Foodies are in for a treat – local specialties include anise biscuits and fruitcake. Sip on the usual mulled wine and don’t miss the chance to sample some Maultaschen( large, ravioli-like noodles that are a specialty of the region).

When: November 29 to December 23
More info can be found here .

2) Ravenna Gorge Christmas Market ( Black Forest, Germany)

Located in southwest Germany, Ravenna Gorge Christmas market is like a mini Christmas village. Revelers can sign up for a night-time torch lit trek to the Ravenna Gorge Christmas Market, which sits at the base of the Ravenna Gorge under the dramatic 130-foot arches of the Devil’s Valley Railway viaducts, illuminated in bright winter lights. 40 vendors offering handicrafts and local products in this small village of little wooden huts are surrounded by the steep cliffs of the gorge. Visitors can enjoy live music and a varied selection of food and beverages. The speciality of this market is – cherry topped black forest sponge cake …. Sounds familiar??

When : All four weekends before Christmas beginning Nov. 26, 2016.
More info can be found here . 

3) Nuremberg Christkindlesmarkt :

With more than two million annual visitors to this market , Nuremberg Christkindlesmarkt is undoubtedly one of the most popular christmas markets of Germany.The Nuremberg Christmas market spreads through the old town but the true heart is on Hauptmarkt (Main Market Square) in front of the Liebfraukirche (Church of Our Lady). Each year, the celebrations officially open with a speech given by the Christkind—the traditional gift-giver and symbol of the Christmas Market—from the balcony of the Frauenkirche, a monumental Gothic church. The origin of this market can be traced as far back as 1628. It is the founding place of traditional German Gingerbread which gets jazzed up with chocolate and spiced with cinnamon, nutmeg and cloves. Equally famous are Nuremberg rostbratwurst – miniature grilled sausages served with horseradish . There’s also a dedicated market for children, featuring a carousel, sparkling Ferris wheel and a program of dance and music for families. One of the must try delicacies of this market is : Lebkuchen and red-wine spiked hot chocolate

When : November 30 to December 24
More info can be found here.

4) Berlin WeihnachtsZauber :

Centrally located at one of the most beautiful squares in Berlin, this Christmas Market’s main attraction is the rodelbahn, Europe’s largest mobile toboggan run, traversing 230 feet and offering a view of Brandenburg Gate from its peak. The atmospheric WeihnachtsZauber Gendarmenmarkt is situated in a square surrounded by the Französischer Dom, Deutscher Dom, and the Konzerthaus and is lit up by more than 1,000 strings of lights. You can eat to your hearts content in this market as it has lots of food on offer like sausage, Belgian waffles, hot soup, steak, cheese and ginger cookies. But first grab a hot and steaming cup of Glühwein (mulled wine) which will keep you warm in snowy cold night. This market also has entertainment such as musical performances , jazz bands and gospel singers to keep you entertained.

When : November 26 to December 31
More info can be found here.

5) Düsseldorf’s Marktplatz :

If you want to gaze into the past while strolling through brush markers, local artisan wood turners, pewterers and glassblowers in Renaissance-style huts – This Christmas market is place to be.
Besides being one of Germany’s most beautiful Christmas fairs, Dusseldorf Christmas Market is spread over a variety of locations throughout the city. Each address will have its own distinctive theme, ranging from the delightfully traditional Christmas Market on Marktplatz to the Scandinavian inspired Christmas Market on Schadowplatz. You will find glittering Christmas tree decorations, distinguished handcrafts and plenty of tasty seasonal treats offered simultaneously at seven different locations, all within easy walking distance.

When : November 22 to December 30
More info can be found here.

 

I am not sure if its the lights , food , company or seeing people happy in the festive mood that makes Christmas Markets so special. Are there any Christmas Markets in your town. What  makes them special? Which is the prettiest Christmas market you have ever seen? Do share with me in the comments below. And again thank you so much for stopping by. Wishing you all ……..

MERRY CHRISTMAS

KanikaGuest