Open Christmas Markets in Germany. Holidays in Germany. Although Advent hasn’t officially started, several Christmas markets in Germany have already opened, drawing visitors with festive decorations and holiday treats. While Christmas markets usually begin in late November or early December, some cities have kicked off their celebrations earlier. These five markets, filled with twinkling lights, the scent of mulled wine, and handcrafted gifts, give people the chance to enjoy the magic of the season before winter truly begins. Ready for the aroma of holiday foods and festive drinks? These five Christmas markets are already welcoming visitors.
Open Christmas Markets in Germany
Bayreuth and Hamburg-Wandsbek are among the first German cities to open their holiday markets this year, creating festive villages filled with holiday treats and winter activities. Bayreuth’s “Winter Village” opened on October 15, transforming the city center with charming wooden cottages where visitors can enjoy mulled wine and the local “Baraider sausages.” This festive setup will remain open until the end of 2024, allowing plenty of time to soak in the holiday atmosphere.
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Meanwhile, Hamburg-Wandsbek’s winter market, which opened on November 1, offers rustic cottages, a large ice rink, and a children’s carousel for younger visitors. For those looking for a unique view, a panoramic terrace provides scenic overlooks of the winter village. This market is set to run until January 1, 2025, providing an extended holiday experience for locals and travellers alike.
Berlin has also joined in the early festivities with some of its Christmas markets now open to the public. The “Lichtenberg Christmas Time” on Landsberger Allee offers traditional holiday treats like waffles and mulled wine, along with various attractions. This market will stay open through January 1, extending the holiday spirit into the New Year.
On Potsdamer Platz, while the Christmas market officially opens at the end of November, the Winter World setup is already welcoming guests. This area features a thrilling 12-meter-high, 70-meter-long toboggan run, bringing winter sports to the heart of Berlin. Visitors can enjoy seasonal treats, from sausages to pancakes, at nearby stands, making it a cozy holiday destination even before the main market opens.
The final Christmas market to open early this season is in Essen, where the Steele district is already aglow with festive lights since November 2. Visitors can enjoy traditional treats like mulled wine, gingerbread, and roasted almonds while browsing the decorated stalls that offer a variety of holiday goods. The market includes a main stage for concerts and plenty of attractions designed for kids, creating a lively atmosphere that lasts until January 5, longer than most other markets.
Notably, Essen was named Germany’s top holiday destination for 2025. Known for its industrial past, the city has transformed in recent years, becoming one of the greenest cities in North Rhine-Westphalia. Its Steele Christmas market reflects this evolving charm, making it a must-visit for holiday enthusiasts.