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

When the first snowflakes begin to fall on Munich’s cobblestone streets, the city transforms into a magical winter wonderland.

The air fills with the scent of gingerbread and roasted almonds, twinkling lights illuminate the historic buildings, and the festive spirit is palpable.

Munich’s Christmas markets, a cherished tradition dating back centuries, offer an unforgettable experience that captures the heart of the holiday season in Germany.

Munich’s Christmas Markets

Dates and Program

Munich boasts a plethora of Christmas markets, each with its unique charm and offerings. The main market, Christkindlmarkt, at Marienplatz, will run from November 25th to December 24th, 2024.

Other markets, scattered throughout the historic center, typically open around the same time and offer a variety of festive experiences.

While the full program is still being finalized, here’s a glimpse of what you can expect:

• Traditional Crafts and Gifts: Browse through stalls overflowing with handcrafted ornaments, wooden toys, nutcrackers, and other unique souvenirs, perfect for finding one-of-a-kind presents for your loved ones back home.
• Culinary Delights: Indulge in Bavarian specialties like bratwurst, pretzels, lebkuchen (gingerbread), and stollen (fruitcake). Warm up with a cup of Glühwein (mulled wine) or hot chocolate.
• Live Music and Performances: Enjoy carol singing, traditional Bavarian music, and other live entertainment throughout the markets, adding to the festive atmosphere.
• Historical Charm: Many markets, like the one at Marienplatz, are set against the backdrop of stunning historic architecture, creating a truly magical ambiance.
• Family-Friendly Fun: Most markets offer activities for children, including carousels, Ferris wheels, and visits from the Christkind (the Christmas gift-bringer in German tradition).

What to Expect

Munich’s Christmas markets offer something for everyone:

• Festive Atmosphere: Stroll through the markets, adorned with twinkling lights and festive decorations, and feel the warmth and joy of the holiday season.
• Diverse Experiences: Each market has its own distinct personality, from the traditional charm of the Christkindlmarkt to the medieval-themed market at Wittelsbacherplatz.
• Cultural Immersion: Experience the heart of Bavarian Christmas traditions, from sampling local delicacies to listening to traditional music.

Beyond the Markets: Munich’s Allure

While the markets are the main attraction, Munich’s allure extends far beyond. It’s no wonder that people from all over the world, including neighboring countries, flock to the Bavarian capital during Advent.

• Marienplatz: The heart of Munich, this square is home to the iconic Neues Rathaus (New Town Hall) with its Glockenspiel, a must-see attraction.
• Nymphenburg Palace: Explore this Baroque palace and its stunning gardens, a perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of the city center.
• Hofbräuhaus: Experience Bavarian culture at its finest at this world-famous beer hall.
• Viktualienmarkt: This bustling food market offers a wide array of fresh produce, meats, cheeses, and other delicacies.

Along with those in Nuremberg and Frankfurt, Munich’s Christmas markets are considered to be one of the oldest in the country. The traditional fair in Marienplatz is said to date back to the 14th century, the nearby Kripperlmarkt, which specializes in Nativity figures and handicrafts, first took place in 1757.

From humble beginnings, Munich’s Christmas markets have only grown in size, and now the city is home to more than a dozen Advent markets with unique offerings.

Christmas Markets at Marienplatz

Steeped in history and brimming with Bavarian charm, the Christkindlmarkt at Marienplatz is the heart and soul of Munich’s Christmas market scene. Dating back to the 14th century, this traditional market is considered the original among its festive counterparts, and it’s easy to see why.

When and where will it all take place?

Location: On Marienplatz and the main shopping center streets

Dates: November 25th – December 24th, 2024.

Hours: Mo – Sat.: 10.00 AM – 9.00 PM, Sun: 10.00 AM – 8.00 PM, Christmas Eve: 10.00 AM – 2.00 PM

Admission: FREE

Program of the Munich Christmas markets

This Munich Christkindlmarkt has it all – history, tradition, unbeatable scenery, amazing festive decorations, and a range of stalls to cover all your shopping needs and tastes.

The Christmas market has around 140 stalls offering typical delicacies, plenty of mulled wine, arts and crafts, and much more.

In addition, you can look forward to a rich accompanying program that will include live Advent music from the balcony of the town hall, craft workshops for children, and a Krampus run.

A 25-meter tall Christmas tree, decorated with 3,000 sparkling lights, fills the heart of Munich with holiday magic. The air is filled with the warm scent of mulled wine, and shimmering decorations create a festive atmosphere.

Do you want to enjoy a wonderful view of the entire illuminated market? Then climb to the top of St. Peter’s Church after sunset.

Take a look at what this Munich Advent market looks like:

München Weihnachtsmarkt 2022 (Munich Christmas Market 2022) Marienplatz walking tour 4K 22.11.2022

Christmas Village in the Rezidenz

The Christmas Village, tucked away in the cozy courtyard of Munich’s city palace, offers a warm escape from the cold winter weather. Hansel and Gretel in the fairytale forest and puppet shows delight both children and adults.

When and where will it all take place?

Location: Residenzstraße 1

Dates: November 18 to December 22, 2024

Hours: Mon.-Sun.: 11:00 AM – 9.00 PM

Admission: FREE

Residenz Christmas Village: A Fairytale in the Heart of Munich

Step into a storybook setting at the Residenz Christmas Village, nestled within the majestic courtyard of the Royal Palace, just steps from Odeonsplatz.

This enchanting market is a treasure trove of holiday delights, with countless stalls brimming with traditional crafts, exquisite ornaments, and mouthwatering treats to satisfy every Christmas wish.

Witness the magic of skilled artisans as they demonstrate their crafts. Watch blacksmiths forge intricate designs, weavers create colorful tapestries, and carvers bring wood to life.

Awe-Inspiring Nativity Scene

Prepare to be mesmerized by the life-size nativity scene, a breathtaking centerpiece of the market. Its intricate details and grandeur capture the true spirit of the season.

Enchanting Fairytale Forest

Children will be captivated by the enchanting fairytale forest, where stories come alive and imaginations soar.

Festive Music Program

The daily music program sets the perfect festive mood, creating an unforgettable Christmas experience for all.

Medieval Christmas Market Mittelaltermarkt

History at your fingertips: Dozens of lovingly designed wooden huts bring the Middle Ages back to life. Merchants in historical garb offer their goods for sale. Artisans demonstrate ancient crafts.

The culinary offerings of the Middle Ages are not neglected either: Bakers prepare traditional tarte flambée on site and grilled sausages sizzle over an open beechwood fire. Hot drinks like Drachenglut (dragon’s embers) and spiced wine are prepared according to traditional recipes.

When and where will it all take place?

Location: Wittelsbacherplatz, Brienner Straße 6-10

Dates: November 23 to December 23, 2024

Hours: Daily 11.00 AM – 9.00 PM

Admission: FREE

Be delighted by Munich’s Medieval Christmas Market. This charming village of half-timbered stalls takes visitors back to the Middle Ages. Head to the medieval Christmas market at Wittelsbacherplatz, just a short walk from the famous Odeonplatz. Medieval dance music, jugglers, and knights will create a unique atmosphere. It’s located in a large square about halfway between Munich’s museum quarter and Town Hall.

You’ll find everything for your medieval cosplay needs, from velvet dresses and fur wraps to gold jewelry and iron swords.

This is a great place to try “Feuerzangenbowle” or Fire Bowl Punch. Traditional mulled wine is enhanced with a generous glug of rum and a sugar cube, which is set alight to caramelize and melt into the mug.

It’s a surefire way to warm up on a cold winter day. Bonus: the “feuerzangenbowle! at the medieval market is served in awesome clay goblets.

Munich Medieval Christmas Market 2022 walking tour - München Mittelalterlicher Weihnachtsmarkt 4K

Christkindlmarkt at Sendlinger Tor (gate)

The festive spirit has graced the area in front of Sendlinger Tor since as far back as 1886. Today, over a century later, this charming Christkindlmarkt carries on the tradition, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere for visitors.

The historic Sendlinger Tor, one of Munich’s last remaining city gates, stands illuminated, beckoning you to wander through its charming market stalls and soak up the holiday cheer.

When and where will it all take place?

Location: Sendlinger-Tor-Platz

Dates: November 25 to December 22, 2024

Hours: Daily 10.30 AM – 9.00 PM

Admission: FREE

Imagine a treasure trove where the world’s festive traditions converge! Here, vendors showcase Nativity scenes from the Tyrolean Alps and the Peruvian Andes, alongside dazzling Christmas baubles, hand-drawn candles, fragrant oils, and handcrafted jewelry. Discover the artistry of Indian handicrafts, the warmth of wooden toys, and countless other unique finds that whisper of Christmas magic.

Feast Your Senses

As you wander, the tempting aromas of festive fare fill the air. Warm your hands and heart with a steaming cup of spicy mulled wine or the fiery delight of Feuerzangenbowle (fire-tongs punch). And for those seeking a non-alcoholic treat, hot beverages abound.

A Symphony of the Season

A daily program of enchanting Christmas music sets the perfect backdrop, creating a heartwarming atmosphere that will fill you with the joy of the season. Whether you’re young or young at heart, the Sendlinger Tor Christmas Market promises a truly unforgettable experience.

Pink Christmas: LGBT Christmas Market in Munich

In the heart of Munich’s Glockenbachviertel, a Christmas market bursts with color and joy. Pagoda tents and dazzling trees create a scene that sparkles with a unique vibrancy during Advent. This is Pink Christmas, a beloved tradition since 2005, where the LGBTQ+ community and allies gather to celebrate the season in style.

But Pink Christmas is more than just a festive gathering; it’s a symbol of inclusivity and acceptance. Families, friends, guests, and neighbors from all walks of life come together to share in the holiday spirit, regardless of sexual orientation. So, come one, come all, to this dazzling celebration where love truly shines brightest!

When and where will it all take place?

Location: Stephansplatz München

Dates: November 25 to December 23, 2024

Hours: Mo-Fri: 4:00 PM – 10:00 PM, Sat-Sun 2:00 PM – 10:00 PM

Admission: FREE

If you are in the mood for colorful and dazzling Christmas markets, then you must visit the Pink Christmas in the Glockenbachviertel. It’s anything but a traditional market, yet creates the perfect Christmas atmosphere.

It’s thanks to the unusual lighting design because as the name suggests, this Advent market in Munich is lit up in a bright pink color.

Everything is stylishly and elegantly decorated, there is mulled wine, and stalls with goodies and other items. Created by the LGBTQ community, this unique Munich Christmas market is now widely visited by families with children.

You’ll find the classic Christmas market staples here—steaming mugs of Glühwein, sizzling bratwurst, and festive tunes filling the air. But Pink Christmas at Stephansplatz takes it up a notch, adding a touch of fabulous flair to your holiday experience.

As dusk settles, the market transforms into a vibrant stage for nightly pop shows, dazzling travesty performances, and appearances by Munich’s beloved celebrities.

And if mulled wine isn’t your thing, no worries! Head over to the prosecco bar for a bubbly alternative and keep the festive spirit flowing.

Pink Christmas is a celebration where everyone feels welcome, and the entertainment reflects that. It’s a place to embrace the joy of the season, surrounded by a community that sparkles as brightly as the lights on the Christmas trees.

What else can you do in Advent Munich?

Taste Munich’s Feuerzangenbowle at the Isartor Gate. The Munich Feuerzangenbowle in Isartor will be an annual “hot hit”. This punch, a fragrant mixture of red wine, rum, and spices, is served from a huge cauldron with a wreath of flames.

The Tollwood Festival begins in late November, so – go ahead and visit this winter festival!

The Tollwood Winter Festival is often referred to as Munich’s “alternative Christmas market”. Here you can experience exciting international productions, street theatre as well as organic gastronomy and handicrafts – sustainable and fair – from all over the world.

Things to buy at the Munich Christmas markets

• Christmas Pyramids (Weihnachtspyramide): Munich has the largest options of Christmas Pyramids.
• Smoking Santas: Munich has the largest options for Smoking Santas! Munich had endless options and styles available.
• Straw Ornaments (Strohsterne): Throughout the Munich markets, you’ll discover beautiful little straw Christmas ornaments, normally shaped like stars. You can purchase a beautiful case of the ornaments for very cheap, or buy individual designs as well.
• Nativity Scene Items: Near the Marienplatz market, Munich has an entire Christmas market dedicated to the Nativity scene. You can purchase everything you need for your nativity scene at this market to create your German version for home.

Although not at a Christmas market stall, there is a beautiful craftsman wood store, Holz-Leute, that has been open in Munich since 1873. If you’re looking for a Christmas pyramid, nutcracker, or other wooden item that is of German craftsmanship and quality, be sure to head to their retail location near Marienplatz.

Conclusion

Munich’s Christmas Markets 2024 promises a heartwarming and festive experience that captures the essence of the holiday season in Bavaria. With its diverse offerings, enchanting atmosphere, and rich cultural traditions, it’s a destination that draws visitors from near and far. So, add Munich to your Christmas travel list and create memories that will last a lifetime!

Tips for Visitors

For the most part, the Christmas markets are straightforward and require little planning other than your best walking shoes and a quick check of the weather.

However, there are a few things to note before visiting the markets:

• Crowds: The Christmas markets are open both during the day and at night, with night becoming quite crowded. As Munich is a large city, the evenings become especially crowded. If you want to avoid the crowds, try to visit the markets on weeknights vs. weekends and visit both during the day and in the evening.
• Bring Cash: Germany is still a very cash-heavy country and the Christmas markets are no different. You’ll want cash for most purchases.
• The Glühwein System: One of the most fun parts of the German Christmas markets is the Glühwein mug system. Rather than giving you a disposable cup of mulled wine, you will purchase both the wine and a mug (normally around 8 euros). The mugs can then be returned when you are done drinking your Glühwein or can be kept as a souvenir. The mug designs vary from market to market and from year to year.

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