On 28 November at 5.00pm Munich’s Lord Mayor formally opens the Christmas Market or Christkindlmarkt, as it is called in Munich. The festive tradition dates back to the 14th century. The town’s annals first mention the market as Nicholas Market near the Frauenkirche (Church of our Lady) in 1642. In 1806 the Nicholas Market altered its name and found finally its home in the city centre on the Marienplatz.

More than 140 stalls are built up on this site which are selling interesting things such as arts and crafts, Christmas tree decorations, sweets, mulled wine. A big attraction is also the nearly 30-metre-high Christmas tree lit up by 2,500 candles.

During a stroll through the market you can feel the spirit of Christmas. Going from stall to stall you will find a rich array of Christmas tree-balls and stars, candles, ceramic and toys made of tin or wood.You will also find a lot of unusual products such as crib figurines, chimney sweepers made from plums, angel hair. Don't forget to taste the typical culinary delights: Lebkuchen (ginger bread), baked apples and roasted almonds. If you are freezing, warm yourself up by a cup of Glühwein (mulled wine). The aroma of Glühwein is everywhere in the air.

The historical city crib is set up in the Court of the City Hall. A Crib Market is installed nearby the Christmas market. It is the largest in Germany with a long and rich tradition. Nearby on the Wittelsbacher Platz you can enjoy a medieval Christmas Market.

Every evening, at 5.30pm, Christmas carols can be heared from the balcony of the Town Hall. In addition Bavarian music ensembles present daily an eventful programme on the Marienplatz: folklore, choral and brass music.

Opening hours of the Christmas Market:
Monday to Friday 10.00am - 8.30pm
Saturday 9.00am - 8.30pm
Sunday 10.00am - 7.30pm
24th December 10.00am - 2.00pm