Mulled wine is part of it, as is pan-fried mushrooms for some – and occasionally visitors are even encouraged to stop by for original handicrafts: the Christmas market season is starting again in Bavaria. Sellers and showmen haven’t had it easy in recent years. First the corona pandemic stopped business, then rising prices caused difficulties.
However, they shouldn’t hurt visitors too much, says the chairman of the South German Showmen’s Association, Lorenz Kalb: “We want to remain as popular as possible, including the prices.” The tariff for a cup of mulled wine at the Nuremberg Christmas market will remain at the same level as last year. The markets are not only an important economic factor, but also a piece of experience and culture: “People find their little bit of happiness with us.”
This is also ensured by Christmas markets that are different from the Advent program that has been practiced for decades: for example, events that do not require electric lights or take place far away from the uniform pedestrian zones. A selection of five Bavarian markets that stand out from the crowd.
Mulled wine at lofty heights – Waldwipfelweg Christmas market in Sankt Englmar (Lower Bavaria)
The wooden forest treetop path rises up to 30 meters high above the trees in the Bavarian Forest near Sankt Englmar (Straubing-Bogen district). Visitors can stroll here during Advent with a cup of mulled wine in their hand. At the same time, the path studded with lights bathes the area in a Christmassy glitter.
November 21st to December 23rd on weekends
Candles instead of light bulbs – the Diessen Christmas market (Upper Bavaria)
Christmas markets are only really beautiful in the evening, when thousands upon thousands of lights – usually electrical ones – sparkle in the winter darkness. At the Christmas market in front of the Marienmünster in Dießen am Ammersee (Landsberg am Lech district), almost only candles provide brightness. They flicker at around 35 stalls where artists and craftsmen sell homemade goods. Accordingly, the organizers say it gets crowded, especially after dusk.
December 9th and 10th
Coziness under the pine trees – Leinacher Forest Christmas (Lower Franconia)
Hardly anyone gets past the Christmas market in the city center; you have to look for others a bit. The Leinacher Forest Christmas (Würzburg district) is hidden in a black pine forest. Small wooden stalls along the forest path offer handicrafts, food and drink. The market is organized by local clubs.
December 9th and 10th
Advent in country style – German-American Christmas market in Eging am See (Lower Bavaria)
In the western town of Pullman City in Eging am See (Passau district), Christmas cosiness meets the roughness of the Wild West. Instead of “Silent Night,” country music is playing there. According to American tradition, children can also sit on Santa Claus’ lap and hand him their wish list.
November 10th to December 17th