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Nuremberg Christmas market

Nuremberg Christmas market

December 08, 2023

The Nuremberg Christmas market (Christkindlesmarkt) is one of Germany's oldest, largest, one of most popular, and most famous Christmas markets.


Here are some top tips for making the most of your visit to the magical Nuremberg Christmas market:
1. Bundle up - With frigid December temps averaging high 30's, be sure to wear warm layers, hat, gloves, and winter boots.
2. Go early/weekday - For thinner crowds, aim to arrive right at opening time (10 am) or visit on weekdays vs weekends. Weeknights can be lovely too.
3. Wander off the main square - In addition to the iconic Hauptmarkt, amble down side streets to discover more charming stalls and mulled wine stops.
4. Taste the gluehwein - Sip steaming hot spiced mulled wine for the quintessential German market experience. Red or white - take your pick!
5. Eat Nuremberg sausage - At the oldest food stall, try Nuremberg's beloved finger-sized grilled sausages with sweet mustard.
6. Grab gingerbread (Lebkuchen) - Pick up heart-shaped gingerbread, a renowned Nuremberg specialty, for the perfect edible souvenir.
7. See the Christkind - Don't miss the opening ceremony on the Church of Our Lady balcony as the Christkind angel declares the market open.
8. Visit the craft stalls - Peruse stalls brimming with nutcrackers, wooden

History

  • It was first held in 1628, making it one of the oldest Christmas markets in Germany.
  • Local children were invited to participate by Elector Ferdinand II
  • The symbolic opening ceremony performed by the Christkind (Christ Child) started in 1948


Location & Timeframe

  • Held in Nuremberg's central Hauptmarkt (main market) square
  • It starts on the Friday before the first Advent Sunday (late November)
  • It runs for about one month until Christmas Eve

Attractions & Highlights

  • Over 200 wooden stalls selling local crafts, decorations, toys, food
  • Traditional gingerbread (Lebkuchen) is extremely popular
  • Beautifully decorated stalls and trees with thousands of lights
  • Live performances from brass bands & choirs
  • Christkindlesmarkt children's workshops making crafts and gifts

Food & Drink

  • Iconic Nuremberg sausages
  • Local gingerbread cookies (Lebkuchen)
  • Roasted chestnuts
  • Mulled wine
  • Fruit loaves & baked goods

Atmosphere


  • Charming old-world ambiance with festive music filling the square
  • Bustling crowds enjoying holiday shopping & celebrations
  • Visitors from all over the world experience German Christmas traditions

The rich history, festive charm, and yuletide spirit of Nuremberg's famous Christmas market make it an iconic must-see holiday destination.