There are few things more festive than Germany during the holiday season. The gaiety extends far beyond Christmas trees and twinkling lights. One of the biggest draws of both tourist and locals are the enchanting Christmas markets in Germany, called Christkindlmarkt, that flourish in towns throughout Germany. Trumpets sound and bells ring out seasonal music, and choirs sing choruses from classical to gospel. The streets and squares are adorned with holiday decorations and festive lighting, enhancing the already charming atmosphere of the pedestrian shopping areas.

Shopping at these captivating markets is a completely different experience than heading to your neighborhood mall in the U.S. to jostle and scrap for deeply discounted electronics or the hottest toy of the season. The Christmas markets in Germany offer more traditional goods, typically hand-crafted instead of mass-produced. The shops and stalls are filled with wood carvings, candles, hand-made toys, and marionettes, as well as Christmas decorations, ornaments, and nativity figures.

Traditional food and drink also play a big part in the atmosphere. Stands selling mulled wine, hot chestnuts, bratwurst and baked apples smell divine while they warm and sustain hungry shoppers. Or maybe you only want to spoil your dinner with treats of soft gingerbread or sweet marzipan?

Many German towns hold Christmas markets, although the practice has spread to many other countries. Some of the most famous markets in Nuremberg, Dresden, and Stuttgart attract literally millions of visitors during the Advent season. Most open the last week of November and run until Christmas Eve. To get the full experience and enjoy all of the pleasures of the markets, we recommend that you visit more than one market. You might enjoy combining some serious shopping at a large city market with a somewhat more traditional experience at one of the quaint village markets.

In addition to the Christmas markets, an active arts and entertainment schedule flourishes in Germany during the holiday season. Many plays, operettas, musicals and dramatic readings are performed in the cities. You can test your skill at winter sports like skiing and snowboarding, or watch the thrill-seekers in daring ski-jumping competitions.

For help in planning a unique holiday shopping trip and a complete list of Christmas markets in Germany, contact Covington’s knowledgeable vacation advisors. The gifts you give this holiday will be one-of-a-kind, showing your friends and family how much you care.