As Christmas approaches, Germany reveals its most atmospheric side. Over 2500 Christmas markets in wonderful settings invite you to share in the joy of the pre-Christmas season and enter into Germany's special festive mood.
The first ever Christmas market, Dresden's "Striezelmarkt", recorded as far back as 1434. In those days, Christmas markets lasted no more than a day or two and tended to confine themselves to the area around the main church.
Nowadays, Christmas markets usually start before the first weekend of Advent (around the end of November) and go on until Christmas eve or thereabouts. Some do not finish until Epiphany on 6 January.
Christmas markets in Germany's rural areas are no less attractive than those in larger towns and cities, though some only take place on weekends. You can buy everything you need for Christmas here: candles, tree decorations, sweets, biscuits, baking tins and toys. Over time, each market develops a character of its own, influenced by its setting, regional traditions or particular specialities.
