What is Christmas Markets?
Christmas markets grew out of the winter markets of German-speaking towns in the late Middle Ages. A December market in Vienna is recorded in 1298, and Dresden's Striezelmarkt, first held in 1434, is often called the oldest Christmas market in Germany.
Among the most famous today are Nuremberg's Christkindlesmarkt, opened each year by the Christkind, a young woman in gold who reads a prologue from the gallery of the Frauenkirche, and Strasbourg's market, which has been held since 1570.
When is Christmas Markets? Dates for 2026 and 2027
2026
- 27 November – 24 December 2026Nuremberg Christkindlesmarkt
- 27 November – 24 December 2026Strasbourg Christmas market
- Friday 25 December 2026Christmas Day
2027
- 26 November – 24 December 2027Nuremberg Christkindlesmarkt
- Saturday 25 December 2027Christmas Day
Each town sets its own dates. Most markets open in the last week of November and close on 23 or 24 December; a few stay open until the New Year. Nuremberg's always opens on the Friday before the first Sunday of Advent.
How people celebrate
- Glühwein (mulled wine) in a souvenir mug, roasted chestnuts and almonds, gingerbread and grilled sausages.
- Handmade decorations: glass baubles, wooden toys, nativity figures and candles.
- Carols, nativity scenes and a great Christmas tree on the square.
Good to know
- Most stalls charge a deposit on the mug, which you get back when you return it, or keep the mug as a souvenir.
- Go on a weekday evening: weekends after dark are the most crowded.
- Nuremberg's gingerbread has a protected name: “Nürnberger Lebkuchen” must be baked in the city itself.