+ What?

A street market associated with the celebration of Christmas during the four weeks of Advent. The history of Christmas Markets goes back to the Late Middle Ages in the German-speaking part of Europe and in many parts of the former Holy Roman Empire.

Germany is becoming more and more popular for these famous markets. They’re held every year in cities, towns and villages throughout the country.

You can buy Christmas gifts which are not mass-produced, but craftwork of real quality. The ambience of a typical German Christmas Market is further enhanced by the aromas of hot chestnuts, grilled sausages and other tasty snacks. People love the gingerbread biscuits known as “Lebkuchen”, as well as the marzipan figures and other sweets.

+ Where?

Germany, France, Switzerland, Belgium, Luxembourg, Austria and some places in the UK. Just a few of the bigger ones in Germany are:

• Berlin
• Bremen (4 hours from Berlin)
• Hamelin (3 hours from Berlin)
• Essen (5 hours from Berlin)
• Lueneberg (45 minutes from Hamburg, 3 hours from Berlin)
• Freiburg (3 hours from Luxembourg)

+ When?

Last week of November to Christmas Eve.