It’s the most wonderful time of the year! Weihnachtsmarkt season! If you find yourself lucky enough to be in Germany at Christmastime, then you’ll start to notice small markets and fairs popping up in many squares. There are loads of different types, ranging from small, local gatherings to huge festivals with Ferris wheels. But they all foster Christmas spirit! Here’s what to expect:
Glühwein
Warm up from the inside with a piping hot mug of this traditional wintertime drink. Glühwein is mulled red wine and, though it took me a little bit of getting used to, I can’t imagine a Weihnachtsmarkt without it. Just a few sips and I feel nice and cozy!
Artisan Booths
What is sold at the booths varies, like at any craft fair. Some focus more on locally made gifts (like leather bags, knit scarves, etc) while others have a more touristy feel. I love looking at all of the handcrafted ornaments. There is a region in eastern Germany called the Erzgebirge that is very famous for its woodworking. The Christmas ornaments and decorations are absolutely adorable and are found at many of the larger markets outside of the region.
Music
There will always be music at a Weihnachtsmarkt, and if you’re lucky it will be live! Get into the Christmas spirit by enjoying some tunes!
Food
Dig. In. The food is honestly the highlight of every Weihnachtsmarkt. Just eat your way through the Bratwursts and potatoes and gingerbread and chocolate covered fruit.
Lights
Though it’s colder, it’s definitely worth it to visit at night when the market is illuminated in bright Christmas lights. So bundle up and hold on to your Glühwein and get ready to fall in love with one of these bustling markets!
Weihnachtmärkte in Berlin
There are oodles more than this, but here are a few to consider if you find yourself in Germany’s capital during Christmastime:
Alexanderplatz:
This is definitely the most touristy option for a Weihnachtsmarkt. It’s definitely not the sweet, small, bustling market that you’ve been dreaming of. It’s got more of a carnival atmosphere. That being said, if you want some touristy ornaments to hang on your tree, or don’t want to leave the center of the city to find something smaller, this market may be just what you need!
Kulturbrauerei:
This is definitely a more locally-attended Weihnachtsmarkt. There was not a cheesy-ornament in sight. But the food was top notch and there were a lot of tasty cooking supplies and loads of gorgeous leather bags for sale.
Dahlem-Dorf:
Head to the outskirts of the city for a really lovely and authentic Weihnachtsmarkt. You do have to pay a small entrance fee, but it’s totally worth it. Inside there is live music, great food, and lots of handmade ornaments and crafts. It has a small-town feel and the people working there are wonderful and cheery!
Charlottenburg:
Set right in front of the famous palace, this market provides a great mix of the toursity and the authentic culture of Weihnachtsmärkte. There’s live music and pretty lights and some nice cheesy Berlin ornaments for you to bring home with you. It is definitely one of my favorites!
