Christmas in Germany is a magical and festive occasion that is deeply rooted in many traditions of days long ago. Modern day Christmas customs and rituals all over the world owe their origins to this magnificent country. The symbolic traditions such as the Christmas tree, as well as the story of St. Nicholas, began in Germany, but some of the most enchanted of all festivities are the German Christmas markets.

Known as Christkindlmarkt in Germany, street markets that have been a part of the German Christmas celebrations since the 15th century. The story goes that they began as seasonal winter markets where vendors sold their wares around Christmastime. In times since, the markets have grown into a cherished tradition that have captivated and delighted all who have experienced them.

Today, many cities and villages in Germany host the Christmas markets every year, but now they’re usually held in quaint town squares and last from the start of Advent until Christmas Eve. The markets are a feast for the senses. Aromas of fresh baked delicacies and sizzling sausages rise in the air and the atmosphere is filled with the sounds of children’s excited chatter and Christmas carols. To the delight of Christmas shoppers who are looking for a unique gift, there are many handicrafts made by skilled local artisans that vary by region.

1. Munich. One of the most popular Christmas markets is located in the center of Munich at Marienplatz in front of the town hall. The scent of baked apples and gingerbread mingle in the air as children get to try their hand at craft-making and baking cookies. There is an outdoor Christmas concert that is held on the town hall balcony that will enliven the spirits while strolling through the stalls of the finest Bavarian wood carvings and glassware.

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2. Dresden is the home of the charming Striezelmarkt, one of Germany’s oldest Christmas markets. It is held on the Altmarkt square and its history dates back to the year 1434.The market’s namesake and culinary appeal belong to the delicious Christstollen, a type of fruitcake, which was originally called Striezel. Other highlights include pottery and lace, blown glass Christmas tree decorations and a breathtaking fourteen meter high Christmas pyramid.

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3. The Nuremberg Christmas market, surrounded by a medieval fortress, is one of the most picturesque markets in Germany. It is popular with visitors and locals alike for its small tasty bratwursts and sauerkraut. There are many Christmas treasures to be found, such as beautiful wood and glass ornaments and traditional nutcrackers all nestled in booths with charming red and white striped roofs.

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4. Berlin’s most sought after Christmas market is the elegant Gendarmenmarkt. Its theme is more for the serious shopper and has a larger variety of gift ideas with the beautiful French and German Cathedral as a backdrop. Also, Berlin has over 50 other markets including the Alexanderplatz which has ice skating and a charming Fairy Forest for the children and the Unter den Linden which offers some of the best mulled wine in Germany.

Images by vinaydeep, ethanlindsey, eiriknewth.

5. Cologne is home to no fewer than seven Christmas markets but the most popular is the one at the impressive Cologne Cathedral. To the delight of both children and adults, it boasts one of the largest tree in Rhineland and has over 160 shops. Also, the children will love the market that is held at Alter Markt which has many toy shops and a puppet theater.

Images by jburgin (1 + 2 + 3)

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