Christmas Markets in Germany 2024. Benefits in Germany. In Germany, Christmas markets are a long-standing tradition that draws both locals and tourists from around the world. Every year, towns and cities light up with festive stands selling holiday treats, crafts, and regional foods. These lively markets are places for families and friends to come together, enjoying the sights, sounds, and flavours of the season. From mulled wine to roasted almonds, Christmas markets are a sensory delight. Wondering when the first Christmas market opens in Germany? We have the date and location.
Christmas Markets in Germany 2024
The first Christmas market kicks off in Hamburg on November 1st with the “Winterzauber” event. This marks the start of the winter season, as the summer beach transforms into a festive pre-Christmas market. Visitors can enjoy heated seating at the bar and sheltered outdoor areas inside a large, wind-proof tent. During the pre-Christmas period, Strand Pauli is open from Wednesday to Sunday, and starting in January, from Thursday to Sunday. As opening hours may vary with the weather, it’s a good idea to check the weekly schedule on the website for updates.
Read also: Understanding Weihnachtsgeld: Who Qualifies for Germany’s Christmas Bonuses?
During the pre-Christmas season, reservations at Strand Pauli are available for groups of two or more, but only with the fondue menu. Guests can choose from a variety of fondue options, including meat, fish, cheese, or vegan. The menu also features homemade pizzas, Pannfisch, chocolate cake, and seasonal cocktails, along with homemade mulled wine and apple punch. A grill booth serves sausages and kale. According to t-online, this Christmas market will remain open until March.
The Elbe Market at Strand Pauli opens on November 1st at 4:00 p.m. and will stay open until March, making it both the first and the longest-running Christmas market of the season. Alongside food and drinks, the market offers curling, with four lanes available for groups of up to eight people starting November 8th. Instead of ice, the game is played on plastic sheets, perfect for those wary of the cold. Curling sessions are priced at about 150 euros per hour and will be available until December 21st.