What will the Advent markets be like in Dresden this year? Program and important information in one place

When the first snowflakes dust the Baroque rooftops of Dresden, a magical transformation takes place. The aroma of gingerbread and Glühwein fills the air, the sounds of carols echo through the streets, and the city’s historic squares come alive with the glow of thousands of twinkling lights.

It’s time for the Dresden Christmas Markets, a cherished tradition that dates back to 1434, making them some of the oldest in Germany.

Dresden Advent Markets

The Dresden Christmas markets, known all over the world for their unique historical scenery, are not only among the most popular but also among the oldest markets of their kind in Germany.

There are seven Christmas markets scattered around the city center, so visitors can choose whether they prefer an elaborate variation on the classic German Christmas market, a beautifully executed fair with a medieval theme, or a market dedicated to international delicacies.

The Striezelmarkt is the most famous Christmas market in Dresden, but it is not by any means the only thing the city of Dresden has to offer. A large number of small and large markets are distributed throughout the city. Each has developed its own flair and individual character over the years.

Dates and Program

Dresden is home to several Christmas markets, each with its unique charm and atmosphere. While specific dates may vary, most markets will open their doors around November 28th, 2024, and continue until Christmas Eve or shortly after.

Here’s a glimpse of what you can expect:

• Striezelmarkt: This iconic market, with its giant Christmas pyramid and traditional crafts, is a must-visit. Be sure to try the famous Dresdner Stollen, a traditional Christmas fruitcake.
• Medieval Christmas Market: Step back in time at this market, where jugglers, fire-eaters, and knights create a festive atmosphere from a bygone era.
• Romantic Christmas Market: Located in the Neumarkt Square, this market offers a more intimate and elegant setting, perfect for couples.
• Augustusmarkt: This family-friendly market features a Ferris wheel, a carousel, and other rides for children.

While the full program is still being finalized, here’s a taste of the festive activities you can look forward to:

• Grand Opening Ceremonies: Each market kicks off with a grand opening ceremony, often featuring live music, performances, and the ceremonial lighting of the Christmas tree.
• Stollen Festival: Witness the spectacular Stollen Festival, where a giant Stollen cake is paraded through the streets and ceremoniously cut.
• Traditional Crafts: Discover unique, handcrafted gifts, from intricate wooden ornaments to delicate porcelain figurines.
• Culinary Delights: Indulge in Saxon specialties like bratwurst, potato pancakes, and Quarkkäulchen (cheese pancakes). Warm up with a cup of Glühwein (mulled wine) or hot chocolate.
• Live Music and Performances: Enjoy carol singing, traditional German music, and other live entertainment throughout the markets.

What to Expect

Dresden’s Christmas markets offer a unique blend of history, culture, and festive cheer:

• Enchanting Atmosphere: The markets are beautifully decorated with twinkling lights, festive ornaments, and towering Christmas trees, creating a magical ambiance.
• Rich Traditions: Experience the heart of German Christmas traditions, from sampling local delicacies to witnessing centuries-old craftsmanship.
• Historic Backdrop: The markets are set against the stunning backdrop of Dresden’s Baroque architecture, adding to the charm and elegance of the experience.

Beyond the Markets: Exploring Dresden

While the markets are the main attraction, Dresden has much more to offer:

• Zwinger Palace: Explore this magnificent Baroque palace complex, home to world-class museums and galleries.
• Frauenkirche: Admire the reconstructed Frauenkirche, a symbol of Dresden’s resilience and hope.
• Semperoper: Catch a performance at this renowned opera house, one of the most beautiful in the world.
• Brühl’s Terrace: Stroll along this elegant promenade, known as the “Balcony of Europe,” and enjoy stunning views of the Elbe River.

Dresden’s Striezelmarkt

Year after year, the Dresden Striezelmarkt reigns supreme, consistently voted the favorite Christmas market in the German-speaking world. And it’s no wonder why!

When and where will it all take place?

Location: Dresden’s Altmarkt

Dates: November 27th – December 24th, 2024.

Hours: Daily 10.00 AM to 9.00 PM, Opening day (27 November): 4.00 PM to 9.00 PM, Christmas Eve (24 December): 10.00 AM to 2.00 PM

Admission: FREE

Program of the Dresden Christmas markets

The Dresden Striezelmarkt is no ordinary Christmas market. It’s a beloved institution, consistently voted the favorite in German-speaking countries, and with its 589th edition in 2023, it proudly holds the title of Germany’s oldest.

This market is a magnet for visitors, drawing them in with its unique superlatives:

• The World’s Largest Step Pyramid: Towering at an impressive 14.61 meters, this Ore Mountain masterpiece is a sight to behold.
• A Walk-in Candle Arch: Stroll through what is likely the world’s largest walk-in candle arch, a luminous pathway that sets the perfect festive mood.
• Free Daily Christmas Cultural Program: Delight in a variety of festive performances and activities designed to entertain both young and old.
• Pflaumentoffel: The Adorable Mascot You Can’t Resist: Meet the Pflaumentoffel, a quirky little prune-and-potato figurine that’s sure to steal your heart. With its mischievous smile peeking out from under a top hat, this handcrafted doll on wooden legs is a testament to the loving craftsmanship that permeates the market.
• A Romantic Ride on the Historic Ferris Wheel: For a truly nostalgic experience, hop aboard the historic Ferris wheel. As you gently ascend, take in the breathtaking view of the glittering Striezelmarkt below. With cotton candy in hand, the aroma of roasted almonds in the air, and the soft melodies of a barrel organ playing in the distance, it’s a moment of pure Christmas magic.

Check out these absolutely idyllic markets:

Der Striezelmarkt - der Dresdener Weihnachtsmarkt

Advent at the Neumarkt 

Just a stone’s throw from the iconic Frauenkirche, the Neumarkt Christmas Market offers a delightful experience without the hustle and bustle of larger markets. Here, you won’t find towering pyramids or whirling carousels. Instead, a serene and intimate atmosphere invites you to savor the simple joys of the season.

When and where will it all take place?

Location: Neumarkt, Dresden

Dates: November 26th – December 19th, 2024.

Hours: Daily 11.00 AM to 10.00 PM, Christmas Eve: 11.00 AM to 8.00 PM

Admission: FREE

Advent in Neumarkt in details

Neumarkt, with its unmistakable old-time charm, is probably one of the most beautiful and historic squares in Europe. After the completion of the Frauenkirche, the Neumarkt acquired its most magnificent building, which lends this square a piece of historical identity.

You can find here many great stalls, high-quality, handmade goods, delicious gastronomy, and contemplative strolls through the streets.

Up to and including January 5th, 2025 you can continue to enjoy the beautiful winter flair in front of the Dresden Frauenkirche as part of “Ambience on the Neumarkt”. The Christmas goods will then be gone, but you will be spoiled with delicious, hot cocktails.

On New Year’s Eve, a sophisticated event with danceable music from the jazz/funk/soul genre will await you! Let’s slide into 2025 sipping cocktails in a wonderful atmosphere with a view of Dresden’s landmark.

All opening times at a glance:
November 27th, 2024 5:00 p.m. – 10:00 p.m. (pre-opening)
November 28th, 2024 – December 23rd, 2024 11:00 a.m. – 10:00 p.m.
December 24th, 2024 – December 26th, 2024 closed
December 27th, 2024 – January 5th, 2025 11:00 a.m. – 10:00 p.m.
with the following exceptions:
December 31st, 2024 11:00 a.m. – 12:30 a.m.
January 1st, 2025 closed
January 5th, 2025 11:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m.

Christmas markets at the Frauenkirche

Imagine a Christmas market tucked beside the majestic Frauenkirche, where the air hums with festive cheer and the aroma of gingerbread. This is the traditional Christmas market at the Frauenkirche, a charming destination where every stroll leads you past stalls brimming with handcrafted treasures.

Traditionally held from the last week of November until Christmas Eve, it enchants the city of Dresden with its festive atmosphere.

When and where will it all take place?

Location: Münzgasse

Dates: November 27th – December 24th, 2024.

Hours: Daily 10.00 AM – 9.00 PM

Admission: FREE

What to do here?

Be enchanted by the Dresden Christmas Market, located on Münzgasse, right between Dresden’s world-famous Frauenkirche and Brühlscher Terrasse.

Handmade Wonders from Vogtland

Discover the artistry of the Vogtland region as you browse through an array of exquisite pottery, delicate glassware, and intricate lace. Each piece whispers of tradition and skilled craftsmanship, making them perfect gifts or cherished keepsakes.

A Towering Christmas Pyramid – At the heart of this delightful market stands an eight-meter-tall Christmas pyramid, adorned with handcrafted wooden figurines. It’s a sight to behold, inviting you to climb its steps and soak in the festive atmosphere.

Santa’s Daily Visits – For the little ones (and the young at heart!), Santa Claus himself makes a special appearance every day at 4 pm, bearing sweet surprises and spreading holiday cheer.

This Christmas market isn’t just about shopping; it’s about experiencing the heartwarming traditions and timeless charm that make the season so special. So, come wander through the stalls, enjoy the festive atmosphere, and create lasting memories at the Frauenkirche Christmas Market.

Stallhof Advent Festival – Medieval Christmas Market

Step Back in Time at Dresden’s Stallhof Advent Festival – Within the majestic walls of Dresden’s Royal Palace, a truly unique Christmas experience awaits. The Stallhof Advent Festival transports you to a bygone era, where skilled artisans showcase their crafts amidst a historic and charming atmosphere.

When and where will it all take place?

Stallhof Festival Program

Christmas events in Dresden take many forms. The medieval Christmas market in the Stallhof in the Residenzschloss is also original. Not only the historical scenery of the fair is expected, but also a rich selection of handicrafts and tasty food.

In addition, there will also be jugglers and singers who will provide the right atmosphere. We must also mention the public bath house and its two huge baths, each of which can accommodate eight people. So there is no problem to load into them and enjoy the time with mulled wine in hand.

If you are looking for a place free from the hustle and bustle, loudspeakers, and almost all electric lights, then this Advent market in Dresden is for you.

Stallhof Advent Festival is one of Dresden’s most unique Christmas Markets for a few reasons:

1. it’s located within the Dresden Castle walls in a courtyard and

2. It’s medieval-themed. It feels like a mix of visiting a Christmas Market and a Medieval fair all in one.

By far the most unique part of this market is the soaking tub, where 5-6 people can soak in a warm tub and are served drinks of their choice. 

Dresden Winter Lights Market

During Christmas Dresden’s main shopping street is strung with an impressive lights display. It’s worth stopping by to view the lights, which aren’t far from the main Striezelmarkt.

When and where will it all take place?

Location: Prager Straße

Dates: November 28th – December 23th, 2024.

Hours: Daily 10.00 AM – 9.00 PM

Admission: FREE

What to do at the Dresdner Winterlichter?

This market is located in one of Dresden’s most popular shopping streets. It is located between the city center and the main railway station.

The “Dresden Winter Lights” will bathe the shopping mile in a festive light and delight visitors. In addition to the typical Christmas market offerings, Dresden residents and their guests can look forward to regional specialties from Dresden and the surrounding area.

Since 2012, the almost 12 m high tree of lights, which is unique with its light illumination and was made especially for the “Dresden Winter Lights”, has been the center of the Christmas market.

With its over 10,000 LEDs, the tree plays a light animation every half hour from 3 p.m. to modern, Christmas music and incorporates the snowman family, which also stands in the form of four large figures on the plateau in the heart of the market. The “Dresden Winter Lights” are another highlight for the state capital Dresden and will sustainably strengthen the city’s reputation as the “Christmas capital”.

At the stalls, you will find everything you can think of, be it mulled wine, Feuerzangenbowle, protective stars, gingerbread, incense, Finnish honey, delicious salmon, or white mulled wine from the Hoflößnitz winery.

A “winter light world” enchants children as well as adults. The house of Santa Claus stands below the crossway stairs. Two rustic child merry-go-rounds for the little visitors are built in the middle section of the market, next to the Pullman Hotel.

Augustusmarkt in Neustadt

The Augustusmarkt in Neustadt is identifiable from afar by its expansive Ferris wheel that graces the skyline, visible even from Altmarkt.

The market extends along Hauptstrasse, stretching from the Goldener Reiter statue to the Dreikönigskirche, with elegant white pagodas.

As you walk through the festively adorned Baroque quarter, your senses will be treated to a culinary journey featuring Danish Glögg, Finnish Piparkakut, Swedish Julskinha, Alsatian Bredele, Italian Pandoro, and an array of other delights. It’s a gastronomic adventure through Europe within a charming winter wonderland.

When and where will it all take place?

What to do here?

Augustusmarkt, Dresden’s second largest Christmas market, blossomed in the Christmas landscape of the Polabian metropolis. It represents a 500-meter-long promenade, a cozy walking Christmas market on the main street between Neustädter Markt and Albertplatz.

Typical for this fair is the blue tree with stalactites or the Ferris wheel on the Goldener Reiter, which offers a fantastic view of Dresden and especially invites visitors to the historic Old Town. A children’s carousel or a cinema is prepared for children.

Highlights also include a Christmas pyramid, flame towers, glittering fir trees or lounges where you can shelter from bad weather.

The stalls will offer a wide range of beautiful things, but the culinary offer will also be rich. It will provide a mix of traditional Saxon cuisine and modern street food.

The latest street food trends meet Thuringian sausages and Saxon butter lentils. Here you will find African cuisine, cheese hamburgers, Hungarian langoustines, Alsatian tarte flambée, but also French mulled wines, Portuguese, Polish and Russian specialties. Christmas Dresden will not disappoint you!

Conclusion

Dresden’s Christmas Markets 2024 promise a heartwarming and unforgettable experience that captures the essence of the holiday season in Germany. With its rich history, diverse offerings, and enchanting atmosphere, it’s no wonder that Dresden is a top Christmas market destination. So, add Dresden to your travel bucket list and experience the magic for yourself!

Tips for US Visitors

• Embrace the Glühwein: Don’t miss out on this traditional German mulled wine, the perfect way to warm up on a chilly evening.
• Try the Local Specialties: From bratwurst to Stollen, indulge in the delicious flavors of Saxon Christmas cuisine.
• Plan Your Visits: With several markets to choose from, prioritize the ones that most appeal to you and your interests.
• Dress Warmly: Dresden in December can be quite cold, so bundle up in layers.
• Bring Cash: While some vendors accept cards, it’s always good to have cash on hand, especially for smaller purchases.

So, what are you waiting for? Start planning your Dresden Christmas Market adventure today!