The most wonderful time of the year will soon begin again. To sweeten the wait for the Christ Child, many people visit the beautiful Christmas markets - also known as Christmas markets or Advent markets.
After all, what could be nicer in the cold season than strolling through a Christmas market with friends and family in a convivial atmosphere? Mulled wine, Christmas baked goods, roasted almonds, handicrafts, contemplative music and festive lighting - that's what Christmas markets are all about.
If you are spending a winter vacation in the beautiful Bavarian capital and would like to visit our Book a hotel in Munichthen you should definitely visit one of our Christmas markets. But where does the Christmas market tradition actually come from?
Is the Christmas market tradition German?
The Christmas market tradition is actually a typical German custom - which even originated in our beautiful Munich. With a few exceptions, Christmas markets can only be found in Germany. This is one of the reasons why many tourists are drawn to Germany in winter.
How did the first Christmas market come about?
The Christmas market tradition emerged between the 13th and 14th centuries. Smaller markets began to be held in urban areas, where people could stock up on food and clothing for the winter.
In 1310, a so-called "St. Nicholas market" was first mentioned in a document in Munich. Bautzen followed suit in 1384: King Wenceslas granted the town the right to hold a free meat market on Saturdays from St. Michael's Day (September 29) until Christmas.
Real Christmas markets, similar to those of today, began to spread throughout Germany in the 17th century. You could also buy roasted nuts and hot chestnuts there. A Christmas market tradition that has remained to this day.
By setting up Christmas markets near churches, the clergy hoped to attract more visitors.
Christmas markets were first held in areas that were predominantly inhabited by Protestant citizens. It was not until some time later that they also found their way into Catholic areas.
However, people came mainly for the Christmas atmosphere at the markets, the churches did not really gain any visitors.
Since the beginning of the 20th century, Christmas markets have been an integral part of pre-Christmas traditions and it is impossible to imagine Germany without them.
Where are the oldest Christmas markets?
The oldest documented Christmas market was held in Munich in 1310. However, there may have been Christmas markets even before that. The markets in Dresden, Bautzen, Leipzig, Cologne and Frankfurt am Main have also existed for several centuries.
Christmas markets today
There are now over 2500 Christmas markets in Germany. Today, they are mainly used to enjoy the pre-Christmas atmosphere together. What draws most people to the stalls is the delicious mulled wine.
There is also plenty on offer for children at the Christmas markets in Munich, with carousels, Christmas bakeries, readings and a visit from St. Nicholas. In addition to mulled wine, adults will find lots of delicious treats, Christmas decorations for the home and gifts for loved ones.
Munich even has a medieval Christmas market and a pink Christmas market for the queer community, which is of course open to everyone. There is a Christmas market to suit every taste where you can enjoy the wonderful pre-Christmas period.
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