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In December the main focus is on Christmas, and the Germans have many Christmas traditions to celebrate.

Christmas markets are a very big part of these traditions. Meet up with friends at these beautifully decorated markets where you can buy delicious food, glühwein, handmade items and Christmas cards. Some markets are themed, such as the middle-age market in Esslingen or the baroque one in Ludwigsburg. There are also Christmas market tours that you can do. 
To avoid crowds, it is best to go during the day, although you will miss out on the cosy nighttime atmosphere enhanced by the countless Christmas lights and decorations.

Christmas Day is usually a quiet day spent with family. Shops are closed as well as most restaurants.

After the quiet celebrations of Christmas Day, comes New Year’s Eve. Here it is celebrated with a bang – literally! Fireworks can be seen everywhere. Just take note that fireworks are legally sold between 28-30 December and you are only able to light them from 31 Dec through 1 Jan.

It is also a bit of a tradition to watch Dinner for One on New Year’s Eve, eat Raclette and wash it down with a good Riesling or Sekt

Plan your month

Season

Autumn / Winter.

The astronomical start of winter falls between December 20 and 23, determined by Earth’s position relative to the sun and marked by solar events such as solstices and equinoxes.

Meteorological winter, however, is based on climatic conditions and the annual temperature cycle. In most of the Northern Hemisphere, it is defined as the three coldest months—December, January, and February—with the season officially beginning on December 1.

Time Zone

During Central European Time (CET) in winter, Germany is one hour behind South Africa. This time difference remains until the last Sunday in March when daylight saving time (Summertime) begins.

Weather

December in Germany marks the onset of winter and brings some of the coldest weather of the year. Temperatures can vary significantly, ranging from well below freezing to occasional mild days above 10°C. The weather is notoriously unpredictable, with frequent rain, freezing rain, frost, and fog. Snowfall is more common in mountainous regions, while lower-lying areas may see only light snow or none at all. While many imagine a white Christmas, it’s rare to find widespread snow across Germany during December. 

Festivals

  • Most Christmas markets in Germany open at the end of November and stay lively until just before Christmas. On our Christmas markets page, you’ll find details on the festive foods to try, plus insider tips from fellow South Africans.
  • For an extra touch of magic, many cities also feature Christmas Gardens, a spectacular festival of holiday lights perfect for the season!

Christmas Markets

Visiting Christmas markets in Germany is a delightful way of celebrating the festive season. The heavy scent of sweets, fried sausage and warm wine welcome you to a variety of Christmas delicacies. If you’re feeling a little chilly, grab a warm mug of Glühwein and catch up with friends. Not only are the markets a great place to socialize, but you can also pick up unique gifts, mouth-watering Christmas cookies, and Stollen. Not to mention, you’ll be able to kit yourself out for the winter with cosy woollen gloves and beanie hats. We complied this list from our own experiences as well as the recommendations from members of our Facebook group. You are welcome to contact us if you want to add to the list When do the Chrismas markets open Generally, most Christmas markets in Germany begin at the start of Advent, which is the fourth Sunday before Christmas, typically in late November.Another common starting date is the Monday after “Totensonntag”.The markets usually run until Christmas Eve or sometimes a few days after. Where to find Christmas Markets In larger cities, you’ll often find several Christmas markets scattered across different neighbourhoods, each offering its own unique atmosphere. Smaller towns, however, typically host one main market, where the cosy charm and close-knit community spirit truly shine, making it a magical experience for visitors. Map Please note that some listings on the map only indicate the city, so be sure to confirm the exact address of the Christmas market before planning your visit. Baden-Württemberg Altensteiger Altstadt-Weihnachtsmarkt Baden-Badens Christmas market is open after Christmas till 6 January and it was pretty awesome, I found different stalls compared to other Christmas markets and last year they had a Nativity Austellung from around the world (not sure if it is an annual thing) that was pretty awesome Biberach Christkindlmarkt.  Calw Esslingen – Der Esslinger Mittelaltermarkt & Weihnachtsmarkt is a Medieval Christmas market close to Stuttgart. Watch a video here Freiburg Gengenbacher Adventsmarkt – Die Fenster des größten Adventskalenderhauses der Welt Hohenzollern Castle – as of 2021 they do not have a Christmas market but a Royal winter magic event The Christkindlmarkt in Durlach Karlsruhe is also nice Konstanzer Weihnachstmarkt direkt am Bodensee Ludwigsburg – Ludwigsburger Barock Weihnachtsmarkt. Watch a video here Ravenna Schlucht Christmas Market in the Hochschwarzwald Tubingen Market is excellent for chocolates Stuttgart – Spread over a large area around Schlossplatz Ulm is famous for having the church with the highest church tower. They have a lovely Christmas market in front of the church. Zavelsteiner Burgweihnacht Ravenna Schlucht The market is nestled beneath the towering arches of the Ravenna Viaduct, a historic railway bridge. The dramatic backdrop, surrounded by dense pine forests and snow-dusted hills, creates a fairytale-like atmosphere. More info Bayern Kuchlbauers Turmweihnacht in Abensberg,  it is one of the best I’ve ever been to. An outdoor and indoor market. The indoor one is underground and probably has a lot of SA Market-style goodies. Not often seen at Markets here. Not sure how the indoor one will work this year, but the vibe was magically around the Turm. Only an hour and a bit North of Munich. Here is an additional link The Augsburg Christmas market is very special! On the evening of the opening in November, the Mayor addresses the public from the Rathaus, and ‘angels’ blow trumpets from the Rathaus’ balconies. The music at the opening is spectacular! Also, the food and the vibe are exceptional. Dampfknödel Mohn and with warm Vanillesauce for example. Lots of gorgeous warm spiced drinks. A feast for the eyes too! Eging am See – Pullman city has a German American Christmas market –deutsch-amerikanischer-weihnachtsmarkt Kempten, Füssen and Bad Tölz also have a great Christmas market  There’s a lovely medieval Christmas market at Landsberg am Lech. Lindau – looking out on the Bodensee Munich and in particular the Münchner Christkindlmarkt with the Kripperlmarkt in front of St Michael’s Church. Nürnberg. The biggest and most famous Christmas market in Germany. A girl from Nuremberg is traditionally elected for two years to represent the Christkindlesmarkt. Watch a video here  Neu-Ulm  – Mittelalterlicher Weihnachtsmarkt Regensburg – Romantic Christmas Market at the Thurn und Taxis Castle Rothenburg ob der Tauber – Rothenburg´s Reiterlesmarkt is among the oldest Christmas markets with the tradition dating back over 500 years Berlin, Hamburg, Bremen, Brandenburg Berlin.  There are more than 80 markets in Berlin. Watch a video here  Weihnachtsmarkt am Schloss Charlottenburg Bremen Hamburg Hessen Frankfurt has a 33 meter high Christmas tree. Watch a video here Michelstadt  – Medieval Christmas Market  Rüdesheim am Rhein is nice Seligenstadt Sternschnuppen Markt Wiesbaden Sababurg Zoo Medieval Christmas Market The Sababurg Zoo is home to reindeer—making it the perfect spot for a Christmas market! Once a year, the zoo hosts a large Christmas market. In a setting where visitors can see reindeer, as well as wolves, deer, horses, turtles, and birds of prey, market stalls feature blacksmithing, pottery, and woodworking. There are also knights, medieval music, and fire shows to enjoy. More info Mecklenburg-Vorpommern  Schweriner Weihnachtsmarkt Niedersachsen Hameln  Weihnachtszauber Schloss Bückeburg, north of Bielefeld  Weihnachtswald Goslar The old town of Goslar, home to over 1,500 half-timbered houses, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. In the heart of it all, at Schuhhof, the Christmas Forest will return this year. Rows of fir trees from the Harz region are adorned with 160,000 lights, while visitors can enjoy handcrafted goods and a variety of sweet and savory treats.  More info Nordrhein-Westfalen Aachen is also a treat and worth picking up an extra packet of the famous biscuits from the main bakery in the old town. The Christmas market in Aachen was fantastic. Mülheim an der Ruhr had an awesome medieval market at Schloß Broich and a small “Nikolaus Markt” in their Altstadt Bochum has lovely decorations around and downtown there is a children’s area to listen to stories and then the highlight is when Santa flies across between the buildings on a cable – very cool. Bonn has various Christmas markets Cologne has various Christmas markets Dortmund has the tallest Christmas tree in Germany, a full 45 meters, and it is a fabulous experience to see when the lights are switched on. Drachenfels

Holidays

HolidayDateInformationStates
Public Holidays
1st Day of Christmas / 1. Weihnachtsfeiertag25 DecemberAll
2nd Day of Christmas / 2. Weihnachtsfeiertag26 DecemberAll
Observations
1. Advent01.12.2024All
Meteorological Start of Winter01 DecemberAll
Saint Nicholas Day / Nikolaus-tag06 DecemberSt Nicholas DayAll
2. Advent08.12.2024All
3. Advent15.12.2024All
Winter Solstice21 DecemberThe winter solstice, also known as midwinter, occurs when one of the Earth’s poles has its maximum tilt away from the Sun. It is the longest night (darkness) in the year.All
4. Advent22.12.2024All
Christmas Eve /Heiligabend24 DecemberAll
New Year’s Eve / Silvester31 DecemberNew Years in GermanyAll

Events listed on our website

SA Connections: Monthly Virtual Meetup for South Africans in Germany

10/07/2025 @ 8:00 pm – 10:00 pm – Monthly Topic Suggestions: January: New Year in Germany Share resolutions, cultural differences in celebrating New Year’s, and tips for winter survival. February: Navigating German Bureaucracy Cover common challenges with registering, visas, and paperwork. Share success stories and solutions. March: Finding Community and Belonging Discuss how to connect with locals and build a support network in […]

SA Connections: Monthly Virtual Meetup for South Africans in Germany

12/06/2025 @ 8:00 pm – 10:00 pm – Monthly Topic Suggestions: Summer Fun in Germany Discuss festivals, outdoor activities, and traditions to look forward to. Managing Finances Tips on taxes, saving money, and understanding German banking. Raising Kids in Germany Parenting tips, navigating German schools, and bilingual education. Overcoming Homesickness Share coping strategies and ways to stay connected to South African roots. Starting […]

SA Connections: Monthly Virtual Meetup for South Africans in Germany

11/12/2025 @ 8:00 pm – 10:00 pm – Monthly Topic Suggestions: January: New Year in Germany Share resolutions, cultural differences in celebrating New Year’s, and tips for winter survival. February: Navigating German Bureaucracy Cover common challenges with registering, visas, and paperwork. Share success stories and solutions. March: Finding Community and Belonging Discuss how to connect with locals and build a support network in […]

SA Connections: Monthly Virtual Meetup for South Africans in Germany

13/11/2025 @ 8:00 pm – 10:00 pm – Monthly Topic Suggestions: January: New Year in Germany Share resolutions, cultural differences in celebrating New Year’s, and tips for winter survival. February: Navigating German Bureaucracy Cover common challenges with registering, visas, and paperwork. Share success stories and solutions. March: Finding Community and Belonging Discuss how to connect with locals and build a support network in […]

SA Connections: Monthly Virtual Meetup for South Africans in Germany

09/10/2025 @ 8:00 pm – 10:00 pm – Monthly Topic Suggestions: January: New Year in Germany Share resolutions, cultural differences in celebrating New Year’s, and tips for winter survival. February: Navigating German Bureaucracy Cover common challenges with registering, visas, and paperwork. Share success stories and solutions. March: Finding Community and Belonging Discuss how to connect with locals and build a support network in […]

SA Connections: Monthly Virtual Meetup for South Africans in Germany

11/09/2025 @ 8:00 pm – 10:00 pm – Monthly Topic Suggestions: January: New Year in Germany Share resolutions, cultural differences in celebrating New Year’s, and tips for winter survival. February: Navigating German Bureaucracy Cover common challenges with registering, visas, and paperwork. Share success stories and solutions. March: Finding Community and Belonging Discuss how to connect with locals and build a support network in […]

SA Connections: Monthly Virtual Meetup for South Africans in Germany

14/08/2025 @ 8:00 pm – 10:00 pm – Monthly Topic Suggestions: January: New Year in Germany Share resolutions, cultural differences in celebrating New Year’s, and tips for winter survival. February: Navigating German Bureaucracy Cover common challenges with registering, visas, and paperwork. Share success stories and solutions. March: Finding Community and Belonging Discuss how to connect with locals and build a support network in […]

Theuns Jordaan Tribute – Amsterdam

09/08/2025 @ 7:30 pm – 11:15 pm – The Theuns Jordaan Tribute brings together the cream of South Africa’s artists in the Afas Live Arena in Amsterdam to pay tribute to the iconic Theuns Jordaan. Steve Hofmeyr, Juanita du Plessis, Kurt Darren, Ray Dylan, Dozi, Bobby van Jaarsveld, Karlien van Jaarsveld, Ricus Nel, Jay du Plessis, Gerhard Steyn, Liezel Pieters, Dewald Wasserfal, Jacques […]

Monthly Meetup for South African Freelancers in Germany

11/06/2025 @ 5:00 pm – 6:00 pm – Are you a South African freelancer navigating the challenges of working in Germany? Let’s explore the common challenges that freelancers face and effective stratgies for overcoming them. Whether you’re struggling with finding clients, managing your time, or maintaining motivation, let this meeting be a place to brainstorm and share with people in a similar situation. […]

Monthly Meetup for South African Freelancers in Germany

03/07/2025 @ 7:00 pm – 8:00 pm – Are you a South African freelancer navigating the challenges of working in Germany? Let’s explore the common challenges that freelancers face and effective strategies for overcoming them. Whether you’re struggling with finding clients, managing your time, or maintaining motivation, let this meeting be a place to brainstorm and share with people in a similar situation. […]

Monthly Meetup for South African Freelancers in Germany

07/08/2025 @ 7:00 pm – 8:00 pm – Are you a South African freelancer navigating the challenges of working in Germany? Let’s explore the common challenges that freelancers face and effective strategies for overcoming them. Whether you’re struggling with finding clients, managing your time, or maintaining motivation, let this meeting be a place to brainstorm and share with people in a similar situation. […]

Monthly Meetup for South African Freelancers in Germany

04/09/2025 @ 7:00 pm – 8:00 pm – Are you a South African freelancer navigating the challenges of working in Germany? Let’s explore the common challenges that freelancers face and effective strategies for overcoming them. Whether you’re struggling with finding clients, managing your time, or maintaining motivation, let this meeting be a place to brainstorm and share with people in a similar situation. […]

Foods and Drinks to try

01.

Glühwein

Warm up with a cup of hot mulled wine at Germany’s festive Christmas markets! For those who prefer a non-alcoholic option, try Kinderpunsch, a spiced, fruity drink that’s just as cosy and delicious.

02.

Feuerzangenbowle

Feuerzangenbowle is a classic German winter drink where a rum-soaked sugarloaf is ignited, allowing the caramelized sugar to melt and drip into mulled wine. This warm, festive drink is a beloved tradition during the holiday season, bringing both warmth and spectacle to gatherings.

03.

Stollen

For a true taste of tradition, try Dresden Stollen—the finest you can buy!
While it’s a bit pricier, the quality and rich flavours make it well worth it.

04.

Cookies

Indulge in some classic German holiday treats! Try Lebkuchen (gingerbread), Elisenlebkuchen (nutty gingerbread), Zimtsterne (cinnamon star cookies), Pfeffernüsse (iced gingerbread bites), Vanillekipferln (crescent-shaped vanilla cookies), or Springerle (anise-flavored hard cookies). Each one brings a unique taste of Germany’s festive season!

05.

Raclette

Get ready for the ultimate cheese fest! Melted to perfection, Raclette is a cosy winter favourite in Germany. Find out all about it on our Raclette page for tips, recipes, and more cheesy goodness! 🧀

Fruit and Veggies in Season

Holiday Greetings

December Seasonal
Ich wünsche euch allen einen wunderschönen geruhsamen 1.AdventI wish you all a wonderful peaceful 1st Advent
Frohe Weihnachten!Merry Christmas!
Gesegnete Weihnachten und ein glückliches neues Jahr!Merry Christmas and a happy new year!
Herzliche Weihnachtsgrüße!Merry Christmas!
Ein frohes Weihnachtsfest und alles Gute zum neuen Jahr!Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!
Alles Gute zum neuen Jahr!Happy new year!
Einen guten Rutsch ins neue Jahr!Happy New Year!
Zum neuen Jahr Gesundheit, Glück und viel Erfolg!Happy New Year! health, happiness and much success!

Sources

Related content

German Christmas Recipes

Baking cookies for Christmas is what childhood memories are made of. We will list some websites here where you can find authentic Christmas recipes.  Typical Christmas food Zimtsterne Pfeffernüsse  Vanillekipferl Lebkuchen  Ausstechplätzchen (cut out cookies) Spekulatius Spritzgebäck Linzer Plätzchen Kokosmakronen Dominosteine Engelsaugen Rumkugeln Stollen Spitsbuben Glühwein.  Eierpunsch.  Heiße Schokolade (preferably spiked with some rum!)  Feuerzangenbowle.  Jagertee.  Glühbier.  Grog. Kinderpunsch Roasted Goose Red cabbage Dumplings Roasted Rosenkohl List of websites German Culture  – Christmas Recipes German girl in America – Christmas Dinner My best German Recipes  Days Christmas 2021

German Christmas Traditions

St. Nicholas Day St Nicholas Day, known as Nikolaustag in Germany, is celebrated on the 6th of December. Children leave a pair of cleaned boots outside their door on the evening of the 5th. The boots are then filled with sweets and small gifts. According to legend, Nicholas of Myra gave a poor father money in order to prevent his daughters from being taken into slavery, as the father did not have the funds for his daughters’ dowries. He threw the money through the family’s window, which landed in their shoes, which were drying near their fireplace. Days until Nikolastag Advent Advent is celebrated on the 4 Sundays before Christmas. It is a Christian tradition to prepare for the arrival or coming of Jesus Christ.The first Advent is the first Sunday after 26 November.  Advent wreaths have four large candles, which represent the four weeks of Advent and one candle is lit each Sunday. Families spend some quiet and reflective time together and sing Christmas carols. Drinking and eating typical Christmas food like Stollen, Glühwein (mulled wine), roasted almonds and chestnuts The first candle represents Hope, the second Faith, the third Joy and the final candle Peace.  Advent Calendar The Advent calendar counts down the four weeks leading up to Christmas Eve. Every day a new door of the calendar is opened to reveal a small chocolate or a gift. Originally they concealed a picture or bible verse. Christmas Tree (Tannenbaum) The first known Christmas tree was set up in 1419 in Freiburg by the town bakers They decorated the tree with fruits, nuts, and baked goods, which the children were allowed to remove and eat on New Year’s Day. In Germany, you set up and decorate the tree on Christmas Eve. It is traditional to use a real fir tree. The tree is taken down in January and there are specific days for disposal Christmas markets Most town squares transform into beautiful Christmas markets. Traditionally there will be a big Christmas tree and Nativity scene (Krippe). Additionally, there are where you can buy delicious food, warm drinks and handmade gifts. It is a wonderful place to meet up with friends for some Glühwein while listening to carol singers   Krippe The nativity scene is called a Krippe. It is usually put up in homes, churches and Christmas markets. You can buy the individual pieces at Christmas markets. Look for wooden hand made pieces Weinachtspyramide A wooden carousel with angels and a nativity scene. It has several levels and spins with the help of heat from candles. The larger ones you find at Christmas markets work with electricity Nutcracker dolls Nutcracker dolls originate from late-17th century Germany, particularly the Ore Mountains (German: Erzgebirge) region.The average handmade Nutcracker doll is made from 60 separate pieces and it takes a great deal of time and effort to bring them to life. Every detail of the doll is carefully crafted, from the hair to the clothes and everything in between.  They are made to resemble a toy soldier.Traditional Nutcrackers were functional and used to crack nuts, modern ones are more decorative. Schwibbogen Also called a Lichterbogen, is a beautiful decorative arch originating from the Ore Mountains in Germany. The Schwibbogen is traditionally made of wood and features intricate cut-out designs, often depicting scenes from daily life or folklore. They are illuminated with candles or electric lights, creating a cosy and festive atmosphere.  They also hold cultural significance for the people of the Ore Mountains. The Schwibbogen is believed to symbolize a coal mine’s entrance, highlighting the region’s important mining history. Additionally, many Schwibbogen feature religious motifs, representing the Christian roots of the Ore Mountain communities. Christmas Eve Time to set up the tree, enjoy a simple meal with family and exchange gifts.The traditional meal for the 24th consists of carp, boiled potatoes, cucumber salad and lemon slices. Another alternative is Sausages with potato salad  Christmas Day Many families attend church services and sing traditional Christmas carolsA large meal is traditionally eaten in the afternoon or early evening. Typical dishes include Roast goose or duck stuffed with apples, chestnuts, onions or prunes. Dumplings and Red cabbage with onions and apples are served as side dishes. Days until Christmas

Christmas Markets

Visiting Christmas markets in Germany is a delightful way of celebrating the festive season. The heavy scent of sweets, fried sausage and warm wine welcome you to a variety of Christmas delicacies. If you’re feeling a little chilly, grab a warm mug of Glühwein and catch up with friends. Not only are the markets a great place to socialize, but you can also pick up unique gifts, mouth-watering Christmas cookies, and Stollen. Not to mention, you’ll be able to kit yourself out for the winter with cosy woollen gloves and beanie hats. We complied this list from our own experiences as well as the recommendations from members of our Facebook group. You are welcome to contact us if you want to add to the list When do the Chrismas markets open Generally, most Christmas markets in Germany begin at the start of Advent, which is the fourth Sunday before Christmas, typically in late November.Another common starting date is the Monday after “Totensonntag”.The markets usually run until Christmas Eve or sometimes a few days after. Where to find Christmas Markets In larger cities, you’ll often find several Christmas markets scattered across different neighbourhoods, each offering its own unique atmosphere. Smaller towns, however, typically host one main market, where the cosy charm and close-knit community spirit truly shine, making it a magical experience for visitors. Map Please note that some listings on the map only indicate the city, so be sure to confirm the exact address of the Christmas market before planning your visit. Baden-Württemberg Altensteiger Altstadt-Weihnachtsmarkt Baden-Badens Christmas market is open after Christmas till 6 January and it was pretty awesome, I found different stalls compared to other Christmas markets and last year they had a Nativity Austellung from around the world (not sure if it is an annual thing) that was pretty awesome Biberach Christkindlmarkt.  Calw Esslingen – Der Esslinger Mittelaltermarkt & Weihnachtsmarkt is a Medieval Christmas market close to Stuttgart. Watch a video here Freiburg Gengenbacher Adventsmarkt – Die Fenster des größten Adventskalenderhauses der Welt Hohenzollern Castle – as of 2021 they do not have a Christmas market but a Royal winter magic event The Christkindlmarkt in Durlach Karlsruhe is also nice Konstanzer Weihnachstmarkt direkt am Bodensee Ludwigsburg – Ludwigsburger Barock Weihnachtsmarkt. Watch a video here Ravenna Schlucht Christmas Market in the Hochschwarzwald Tubingen Market is excellent for chocolates Stuttgart – Spread over a large area around Schlossplatz Ulm is famous for having the church with the highest church tower. They have a lovely Christmas market in front of the church. Zavelsteiner Burgweihnacht Ravenna Schlucht The market is nestled beneath the towering arches of the Ravenna Viaduct, a historic railway bridge. The dramatic backdrop, surrounded by dense pine forests and snow-dusted hills, creates a fairytale-like atmosphere. More info Bayern Kuchlbauers Turmweihnacht in Abensberg,  it is one of the best I’ve ever been to. An outdoor and indoor market. The indoor one is underground and probably has a lot of SA Market-style goodies. Not often seen at Markets here. Not sure how the indoor one will work this year, but the vibe was magically around the Turm. Only an hour and a bit North of Munich. Here is an additional link The Augsburg Christmas market is very special! On the evening of the opening in November, the Mayor addresses the public from the Rathaus, and ‘angels’ blow trumpets from the Rathaus’ balconies. The music at the opening is spectacular! Also, the food and the vibe are exceptional. Dampfknödel Mohn and with warm Vanillesauce for example. Lots of gorgeous warm spiced drinks. A feast for the eyes too! Eging am See – Pullman city has a German American Christmas market –deutsch-amerikanischer-weihnachtsmarkt Kempten, Füssen and Bad Tölz also have a great Christmas market  There’s a lovely medieval Christmas market at Landsberg am Lech. Lindau – looking out on the Bodensee Munich and in particular the Münchner Christkindlmarkt with the Kripperlmarkt in front of St Michael’s Church. Nürnberg. The biggest and most famous Christmas market in Germany. A girl from Nuremberg is traditionally elected for two years to represent the Christkindlesmarkt. Watch a video here  Neu-Ulm  – Mittelalterlicher Weihnachtsmarkt Regensburg – Romantic Christmas Market at the Thurn und Taxis Castle Rothenburg ob der Tauber – Rothenburg´s Reiterlesmarkt is among the oldest Christmas markets with the tradition dating back over 500 years Berlin, Hamburg, Bremen, Brandenburg Berlin.  There are more than 80 markets in Berlin. Watch a video here  Weihnachtsmarkt am Schloss Charlottenburg Bremen Hamburg Hessen Frankfurt has a 33 meter high Christmas tree. Watch a video here Michelstadt  – Medieval Christmas Market  Rüdesheim am Rhein is nice Seligenstadt Sternschnuppen Markt Wiesbaden Sababurg Zoo Medieval Christmas Market The Sababurg Zoo is home to reindeer—making it the perfect spot for a Christmas market! Once a year, the zoo hosts a large Christmas market. In a setting where visitors can see reindeer, as well as wolves, deer, horses, turtles, and birds of prey, market stalls feature blacksmithing, pottery, and woodworking. There are also knights, medieval music, and fire shows to enjoy. More info Mecklenburg-Vorpommern  Schweriner Weihnachtsmarkt Niedersachsen Hameln  Weihnachtszauber Schloss Bückeburg, north of Bielefeld  Weihnachtswald Goslar The old town of Goslar, home to over 1,500 half-timbered houses, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. In the heart of it all, at Schuhhof, the Christmas Forest will return this year. Rows of fir trees from the Harz region are adorned with 160,000 lights, while visitors can enjoy handcrafted goods and a variety of sweet and savory treats.  More info Nordrhein-Westfalen Aachen is also a treat and worth picking up an extra packet of the famous biscuits from the main bakery in the old town. The Christmas market in Aachen was fantastic. Mülheim an der Ruhr had an awesome medieval market at Schloß Broich and a small “Nikolaus Markt” in their Altstadt Bochum has lovely decorations around and downtown there is a children’s area to listen to stories and then the highlight is when Santa flies across between the buildings on a cable – very cool. Bonn has various Christmas markets Cologne has various Christmas markets Dortmund has the tallest Christmas tree in Germany, a full 45 meters, and it is a fabulous experience to see when the lights are switched on. Drachenfels

Raclette

The summer months are gone, and for most of us, it is too cold to have a braai with our friends. A great alternative is to have a Raclette party at home.For those who are not familiar with Raclette, it is a dish originating from Switzerland. The history behind the dish is that peasants and cow herders in the Alpine regions carried cheese with them. In the evening the cheese would be placed next to a campfire to soften and melt. It was then scraped onto bread. Today it is done on a Raclette grill and eaten with potatoes, gherkins, pickled onions, corn and cold meats.A hot beverage like tea or white wine is served with your meal. So what do you need? You will need a Raclette grill. You can buy it at most online shops like Raclette.de  Amazon or Media Markt There is a variety of grills, some are combined with a Fondue pot, others have a grill plate on top and often a combination of a grill plate and a hot stone.They come with little pans called coupelles, which are placed under the grill. My experience is that you need at least two per person. Grocery list for a traditional Raclette meal Boiled baby potatoes gherkins pickled onions corn cold meats such as salami and ham Chicken or beef strips Raclette Cheese White Wine Grocery list – South African Twist / modern Bacon bits (not traditional but works well) Beef or chicken strips (not traditional but works well) Mushrooms (not traditional but works well) Small sausages like Nürnberg Rostbratwurst (not traditional but works well) Shrimps / Prawns Peppers Dates or cherries wrapped in bacon Pineapple  Avocado topped with Feta cheese How to prepare and serve Switch on the raclette grill and let it heat up. Lightly oil the grill plate, then fry your choice of meat, sausage, bacon, or mushrooms. Fill your pan with potatoes, and top with gherkins, pickled onions, corn, your fried items, and optionally, cold meats (or enjoy the cold meats on the side). Place a slice of raclette cheese on top and slide the pan under the grill. Relax with family and friends, sipping wine or Kirsch, while your food grills. Once the cheese is melted and golden, use a small spatula to slide the food onto your plate. Prepare your next pan while your meal cools slightly. Enjoy! Tips Serve apple slices with your raclette! Apples help cut through some of the richness of all the melted cheese and salty meat. Raclette dining is meant to be slow and easy so take your time. Raclette cheese is easy to find in Germany. You can also use other cheeses like Gruyere or Emmentaler. South African flavour – add some Mrs Balls chutney to your food before you add the cheese. We have a list of shops that sell South African Products. Marinate your meat strips Paprika or Chilli powder works well with cheese. Gaan bos! Fry and grill whatever you feel like. Dessert Ideas Bananas Berries Marshmallows (small) Figs Pears Chocolate Cookie crumbs for a base or use flapjacks/small pancakes Dessert Ideas (in German) Something different Flammkuchen – Slice pre-made Flammkuchen dough into squares that will fit the pans. Add Cream cheese, and your choice of toppings (bacon spring onion, salami) and grill Pizza – Try making mini pizzas. Use pizza dough, spread some with tomato paste/sauce on the dough and add, other toppings like mushrooms and a lot of mozzarella cheese For breakfast, grill mini flapjacks and top them with sweet options like berries and chocolate, or go savoury with scrambled eggs and cheese. For another hearty idea, fill your pan with sautéed mushrooms, crispy diced bacon, and fresh herbs. Crack an egg over the mixture, sprinkle with cheese, and grill until the egg is cooked to your liking. Serve with toast or a slice of baguette for a delicious meal! Nachos -Layer tortilla chips with cheese and grill until melted. For extra toppings, add fried mince, sautéed peppers, or black beans for a flavorful twist. Pasta – Pre-cook small pasta shapes, ravioli, or gnocchi in advance. Place your pasta in the pan, top it with pre-made sauces and cheese, and grill until golden and bubbly. For extra flavour, include pre-cooked vegetables like broccoli, mushrooms, onions, or bell peppers. You can also add pre-cooked mince or crispy bacon for a hearty twist. Pancakes – Pre-mix a pancake batter. Add toppings (berries, bananas, chocolate, Nutella)  and put under the grill. Add a sprinkle of icing sugar or a twirl of chocolate sauce. Inspiration on the internet The German recipes are easy to follow visually. 13 coole Raclette Rezepte 10 besondere RACLETTE Ideen SO LECKER! 😋 GENIALE RACLETTE PFANNEN IDEEN The EASIEST Way to Host a Raclette Dinner Party Instagram Raclette ideas Instagram Raclette ideen     Related content

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