South Africans in Germany

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German Christmas Markets

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

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

Events listed on our website

Jeremy Loops Europe Tour 2025

11/02/2025 – 22/02/2025 @ 8:00 pm – 11:45 pm – With his dynamic and electrifying live performances and a modern blend of folk and pop,  South African artist Jeremy Loops has made a name for himself globally in recent years. Boasting over 300 million streams and having toured with major acts like Twenty-One Pilots and Milky Chance, his success speaks for itself. He’s also collaborated […]

Prime Circle – The World We Know Tour 2025

11/02/2025 – 20/02/2025 @ 12:00 am – Prime Circle – The world as we know Tour Tickets available on Eventim, and other Ticket platforms Disclaimer: The events listed on this website are for informational purposes only. We do not organize, host, or sell tickets for any of these events. We make every effort to ensure the accuracy of the event details at […]

Kevin Fraser in Frankfurt 15 Feb 2025

15/02/2025 @ 8:00 pm – Join South African comedian Kevin Fraser for his #Imagination2025 comedy tour, a galactic journey blending classic humour with futuristic satire and local flavour. In a star-lit world of wild imagination, Kevin hilariously tackles life’s everyday quirks, from African roots to global absurdities. With impersonations, sharp wit, and a sanctuary of laughter, this tour promises a […]

Afrikaans is lekker – Amsterdam May 2025

24/05/2025 @ 12:00 am – AFRIKAANSE POPSTER-VIERTAL BINNEKORT IN AMSTERDAM Kersfees kom vanjaar vroeg vir Nederlandse aanhangers van die Afrikaanse supersterre Ricus Nel, Brendan Peyper, Elandré en Liza Nel! Dié bekende viertal se Afrikaans is Lekker-konsert sal vir SLEGS EEN AAND op Saterdag 24 Mei 2025 by die Theater Amsterdam in Nederland te sien wees. Die GROOTSTE Afrikaanse Sokkie After […]

SA Connections: Monthly Virtual Meetup for South Africans in Germany

08/05/2025 @ 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

11/12/2025 @ 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 […]

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: 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 […]

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

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

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

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

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

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

Hessen

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

Niedersachsen

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 castle has a beautiful one in and around the castle grounds.
  • Düsseldorf – several markets around the city that are worth visiting. the huge Christmas tree in the Altstadt is apparently a gift from Norway each year. 
  • Gronau has a small market that is only for one weekend
  • Hohenlimburg in Hagen was a delightful real castle-like market. best to park at the bottom and travel up the hill on the shuttle bus available.
  • The Christmas market in Münster
  • Schloss Moyland – a beautiful moated castle – had a gorgeous handcrafted-hand market with a children’s choir and was well-lit for those moving around with wheelchairs or prams. worth the few euros to get in.
  •  There is a lovely medieval market in Siegburg

Rheinland-Pfalz

Sachsen

  • Dresden – the Striezelmarkt in particular, has the world’s tallest Christmas pyramid. Dresden is also famous for its Stollen. Watch a video here

Historisch-romantischer Weihnachtsmarkt

The setting at Königstein is nothing short of breathtaking: perched high above the Elbe River, the towering fortress dominates the Elbe Sandstone Mountains. True to its historic surroundings, the courtyard is filled with hand-crafted wooden stalls on Advent weekends, and vendors don traditional attire.

More info

Sachsen-Anhalt

  •  Quedlinburg is famous for its Weihnachten in den Höfe. Backyards are opened in the Old City which is also a World Heritage city… Great atmosphere

Saarland

  •  The one in Sankt Wendel in Saarland is fabulous with a mix of new and Mittelalter Markt. Fire breathing shows and activities for the kids, are definitely a must.

Schleswig-Holstein

Große Adventskalender von Tönning

The Packhaus, with its 24 large windows, becomes a giant Advent calendar. Each window is beautifully decorated and illuminated to reveal a new festive scene or artwork daily from December 1 to 24. he Packhaus dates back to 1783 and is steeped in maritime history. Its rustic charm adds to the magical atmosphere of the event

More info

Thüringen

  • Eisenach – Historischer Weihnachtsmarkt auf der Wartburg

Other Countries

  • Christkindelsmärik, Strasbourg France, just over the border
  • Colmar – In the picturesque streets of Colmar, the succession of stalls, Christmas decorations and lights will sweep you up in the magic of the Christmas season. Wherever you look, you will be spellbound. Truly the place to be for a genuinely exceptional Christmas experience!
  •  In Valkenburg, Netherlands there is a Christmas market in a cave

Food to indulge in

  • Gebrannte Mandeln (Candied Almonds). Also try the cashews and other nuts.
  • Dampfnudeln is a steamed dumpling served with vanilla sauce or stewed berries.
  • Schupfnudeln mit Sauerkraut. More popular in the south. It is a type of noodle that is fried and served with sauerkraut.
  • Feuerwurst is a thin and long spicy sausage served in a bun.
  • Rote im Semmel is a grilled sausage in a bun. Mostly found in the South.
  • Flammlachs
  • Pancakes with anything from Nutella to liqueur.
  • Stollen. It is really worth buying the more expensive brands. Look out for those from Dresden.
  • Lebkuchen is a soft gingerbread. The Nuremberg Lebkuchen is also known as Elisen and contains more nuts than other types of Lebkuchen. Some are glazed.  
  • Marzipan Bethmännchen (Frankfurt)
  • Flammlachs – grilled salmon
  • Zimtsterne, Vanilla Kipferl, Baumkuchen, Dominosteine, Magenbrot, a sweet glazed bread-like biscuit.

Drinks to try

  • Glühwein (Mulled wine) is a warm drink from red or white wine. Can contain orange, lemon, cinnamon, nutmeg, fennel seed (or star anise), cloves, cardamom, and ginger.
  • Glogg – Nordic style Glühwein
  • Grog – Rum with hot water
  • Heiße Oma, a drink made with eggnog, milk and vanilla sugar
  • Hot cider (Frankfurt)
  • Feuerzangenbowle is Glühwein.  A rum-soaked sugar cube is placed above the liquid and set alight. It then drips into Glühwein.

Shopping

You can find an incredible array of festive and high-quality goods at the Christmas markets. Here are some suggestions. 

  • Hand-crafted gifts can make a great impact on the receiver, especially when they are one-of-a-kind pieces. However, it’s important to ensure their authenticity before making a purchase. 
  • When it comes to Christmas decorations, there are many options to choose from. One brand to consider is Kathe Wolfahrt, which offers a variety of beautiful and festive decorations that can add joy to any home. Whether it’s a wreath, ornament or figurine, these charming pieces are sure to get you in the holiday spirit.
  • Sending Christmas cards is a great way to show loved ones you care. From personalized photo cards to traditional designs, there are endless options to choose from. Don’t forget to add a warm message to make the card extra special.
  • Also, don’t forget to indulge in some traditional holiday treats like Stollen, Zimtsterne, Vanilla Kipferl and Lebkuchen. These delectable goodies are a great way to celebrate the holiday season and create cherished memories with loved ones.

Videos

Here are some videos I found on the web

More on the web

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

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