Where the Carols Begin, The Nuremberg Christmas Market
Minje Son, Editor-in-chief
A Christmas Market in Germany, Like the Opening Scene of a Carol
As the year draws to a close, the streets of Germany grow increasingly bright and lively. In particular, the Hauptmarkt in the old town of Nuremberg, Bavaria, fills with people wandering through the streets with cheerful e-x-p-r-e-s-s-i-o-ns, surrounded by an ever-glowing display of warm, delicate Christmas lights. This is because the square hosts the Nürnberger Christkindlesmarkt, one of the world’s three most famous Christmas markets. It runs from late November until Christmas Eve on December 24. Here, the stalls are adorned with traditional candles, ornaments, and handcrafted goods—every item strictly rooted in long-standing tradition. During the opening ceremony, the Nuremberg Christkind appears on a balcony to officially declare the market open.
From a Humble Winter Fair to a World-Renowned Christmas Market
The earliest known record of the Nuremberg Christmas Market dates back to 1628. Since the 17th century, it has been one of Germany’s longest-running markets, carrying nearly 400 years of history. In its early days, the market was connected to the medieval tradition of “Kindleinbescheren,” a festival centered on giving gifts to children. Rather than a festive attraction as we know today, it resembled a winter marketplace where artisans sold children’s necessities and toys to make a living. Europe at the time was engulfed in the Thirty Years’ War (1618–1648), and some historians interpret the continuation of such Christmas traditions as the citizens’ way of maintaining communal unity during turbulent times.
Nuremberg was also one of southern Germany’s leading centers of craftsmanship and trade from the Middle Ages through the early modern era. Goldsmithing, woodcarving, doll-making, and candle-making flourished under well-developed artisan guilds. Lebkuchen, the city’s famed gingerbread, rose to prominence thanks to monastic traditions and the city’s spice trade. Naturally, the Christmas market evolved into a fair rooted deeply in handmade crafts and artisanal culture.
The Flavors of the Nuremberg Christmas Market
Drei im Weckla — Nuremberg Mini Sausages in a Bun
These are three small Nürnberger Rostbratwürste tucked into a warm, freshly baked bun. With a rich aroma and the comfort of eating them straight from the grill, they are the perfect winter street food—best enjoyed while blowing on them to cool them down. Since the sausages can be quite salty, pairing them with a warm drink is recommended.
Glühwein — Mulled Wine
A warm blend of wine infused with cinnamon, cloves, and orange peel. The price includes a deposit (Pfand) for the mug, which you may return for a refund—or keep as a souvenir. The design changes every year, so many locals collect one mug annually as a tradition.
Lebkuchen — Nuremberg Gingerbread
Soft gingerbread made with honey and spices, originally created in monasteries. It is the signature dessert of the Christmas market.
Kartoffelpuffer — Potato Pancakes
German-style potato pancakes served with apple sauce or sour cream. Their chewy texture and freshly fried crispiness make them the perfect companion to a cup of mulled wine on a cold winter day.
If You Want to Bring the Nuremberg Market Home in Your Pocket
Glass Ornaments
Handcrafted glass baubles and Christmas tree decorations that shimmer beautifully. Their intricate details alone can make you feel immersed in the holiday spirit.
Wooden Decorations and Carved Figures
Made in the traditional Erzgebirge woodcraft style, these include nativity figures, angels, Santas, and music boxes—timeless pieces reflecting Germany’s artisan heritage.
Christmas Pyramid (Pyramiden)
A traditional decoration powered by candle heat, which makes the propeller-like top spin. It is one of the most iconic souvenirs to bring home if you want to recreate a German Christmas atmosphere.
Unique Traditions and Culture Found Only at the Nuremberg Christmas Market
When you step into the Nuremberg Christmas Market, the first thing you notice is the sea of red-and-white striped roofs. More than a hundred stalls share this same pattern, creating a scene reminiscent of a medieval marketplace. This distinctive design has been preserved for decades, serving as a visual symbol of Nuremberg’s traditional identity. As you wander through the market, you’ll eventually come across the Sister Cities Market, where cities from around the world with long-standing ties to Nuremberg showcase their local goods and foods. This small corner adds an international dimension to the market, allowing visitors to experience cultures beyond Germany.
What truly sets the market apart, however, is its commitment to tradition and sustainability. Modern mass-produced items are strictly avoided, and most stalls sell only handcrafted goods made with traditional methods. Even food and drink vendors prioritize reusable cups and containers. These three characteristics—its iconic appearance, global connection, and dedication to traditional craftsmanship—make the Nuremberg Christkindlesmarkt not just a winter fair, but a cultural space that preserves heritage while embracing the world.
If you hope to experience a Christmas atmosphere that is both unique and deeply rooted in tradition, consider visiting the Nuremberg Christmas Market during your winter travels in Europe. It offers a warmth that unfolds in the middle of the coldest season—one well worth experiencing at least once.