What is the tradition of Christmas markets in Germany?

In southern Germany, Switzerland and Austria, it is called a "Christkind(e)l(s)(i)markt" (German language, literally meaning "Christ child market"). Traditionally held in the town square, the market offers food, drinks and seasonal items for sale from open-air stalls, accompanied by traditional singing and dancing.

What do you do at a Christmas market in Germany?

One of the finest ways to experience the holidays in Germany is a Christkindlmarkt (or Christmas market—or, if you're hanging around Berlin, a Weihnachtsmarkt), with hundreds of stalls selling local snacks and gifts, live music by local choirs and orchestras, and carnival-worthy entertainment like ferris wheels and ...

What is the most traditional Christmas market in Germany?

With its 500-year tradition, the Braunschweig Christmas Market is amongst the most attractive and atmospheric Christmas markets in all of Germany. Each year, it attracts several hundred thousand visitors.

What is the history of Christkindlmarkt?

History of German Christkindlmarket. Christmas markets have been a German tradition since at least the mid 1500s. Seasonal markets were held in Germany year around. Christmas markets were an especially joyous, anticipated event, as they brought light and and laughter to a cold, dark season.

What are some interesting facts about Christmas markets?

5 German Christmas traditions you should know | History Stories

What is the purpose of Christmas markets?

These modern markets serve much the same purpose as those of old – a jovial meeting place for locals and visitors to shop and celebrate the yuletide season. With such a rich and joyful history, it's no wonder this beloved tradition has become a holiday fixture across the globe.

What are some interesting facts about Christmas markets in Germany?

Some of Germany's existing Christmas markets trace their origins as far back as the 15th and 16th centuries. Dresden's market first opened for one day on Christmas Eve in 1434. Meanwhile, the oldest evidence of Nuremberg's Christmas market dates it to 1628, though some suspect it stretches back at least to 1530.

How long do the Christmas markets last in Germany?

Christmas markets usually take place around a huge Christmas tree from the end of November to a day or two before Christmas. The eyes of excited, cherry-cheeked children, bundled in winter clothes, light up at the sight of the treasures they see.

Why is Christkind a female?

It was most likely the medieval German tradition of Christmas plays, with an Angel of the Annunciation as the main character, which gave the Christmas Angel its earthly appearance. As angels of all sorts began to be depicted as female and not only male, the Christkind also took on a feminine appearance.

What is the most famous Christmas market in the world?

The main Christmas market in Nuremberg, Germany – Christkindlesmarkt – is one of the oldest and best-known markets globally. It's known for its array of handcrafted goods for sale and for its fantastic German Bratwurst, gingerbread, and other traditional treats.

What is the history of the Christmas market in Germany?

History. The first traces of Christmas markets in the German-speaking part of Europe and in many parts of the former Holy Roman Empire go back to late medieval sales fairs and—often one-day—markets, which gave citizens the opportunity to stock up on meat and winter necessities at the beginning of the cold season.

Why is Nuremberg Christmas market famous?

The Nuremberg Christkindlesmarkt is one of the oldest and most famous Christmas Markets in the world. In the wooden booths of “the little city of wood and cloth” one finds traditional, often handmade Christmas decorations and sweet treats such as gingerbread and Spekulatius almond cookies.

Where is Germany's oldest Christmas market?

The Dresden Striezelmarkt is regularly voted the favourite Christmas market in German-speaking countries. The 589th edition will take place in 2023, making it the oldest Christmas market in Germany.

Do you need cash for Christmas markets?

Christmas Market Tips: Other Tidbits

Bring cash. And by “cash” I mean coins. You'll need them to use the restroom and it can be a lot faster to pay with cash for your food/drinks. Of course, places will take cards, but have money on hand, too.

What are 5 facts about Christmas in Germany?

What city in Germany has the best Christmas market?

What is traditional German Christmas food?

Treat guests to a traditional German Christmas dinner with classic dishes like roasted goose legs, braised red cabbage. and dumplings, and don't forget the mulled wine and platter of gorgeous, festive cookies.

What is Christmas called in Germany?

Weihnachten (German: [ˈvaɪ̯naxtn̩]) is the observance of what is commonly known in English as Christmas in the German-speaking countries such as Germany, Austria and Switzerland.

Why do Germans give gifts on Christmas Eve?

Christmas Eve

First, the presents are not delivered by Santa Claus, but by the Christkind (originally the Christ Child Jesus, nowadays an angel like figure). Since Germans celebrate his birthday that day, they receive presents and joy in return.

Where is the most Christmassy place in Germany?

Is it worth it to go to Germany in December?

December is one of Germany's coldest months with temperatures often just below freezing. If you come in early December, you'll miss the tourist rush while still being able to enjoy the dazzling Christmas markets with their sparkling holiday lights, delicious foods, hot cider and more.

What is Santa called in Germany?

Santa Claus - Der Weihnachtsmann

The term Weihnachtsmann is a very generic German term for Father Christmas, St. Nicholas, or Santa Claus. The German Weihnachtsmann is a fairly recent Christmas tradition having little if any religious or folkloric background.

What are 3 fun facts about Christmas in Germany?

Do German Christmas markets accept cash or card?

Bring cash. This is common in Europe and at markets of this type worldwide, but bring cash! Most of the vendors will not accept credit cards.