Munich's Traditional Christmas Market at Marienplatz Opens for Festive Season

Festive Season Begins in Munich

The traditional Munich Christmas Market, officially known as the Münchner Christkindlmarkt, has officially opened its doors at Marienplatz, ushering in the festive season in the Bavarian capital. The market commenced operations on Monday, November 24, 2025, and will welcome visitors until Tuesday, December 24, 2025, Christmas Eve.

The opening day saw the market's stalls begin trading at 10:00 AM, with the official ceremony taking place at 5:00 PM. Munich's Lord Mayor, Dieter Reiter, presided over the ceremonial lighting of the impressive 25-meter-high Christmas tree, which stands adorned with over 3,900 LED candles.

A Rich History and Vibrant Offerings

The roots of the Münchner Christkindlmarkt stretch back to the 14th century, originally known as a 'Nikolaimarkt' or 'Nikolaidult'. The first documented mention dates to 1642. After several changes in location and name, it found its permanent home at Marienplatz in 1972, becoming one of Germany's oldest and most traditional Christmas markets.

This year, the market features between 130 and 140 stalls, attracting an estimated three million visitors annually. The offerings are diverse, catering to all senses:

• Culinary Delights: Visitors can savor classic treats such as Glühwein (mulled wine), punch, roasted almonds, chestnuts, Lebkuchen (gingerbread), baked apples, and various sausages. Options for vegan, gluten-free, lactose-free, and diabetic diets are also available.
• Handicrafts and Gifts: Stalls showcase a wide array of traditional Bavarian wood carvings, Christmas tree decorations, candles, ceramics, and toys. A significant highlight is the nearby Kripperlmarkt, located near St. Peter's Church, which is renowned as Germany's largest nativity scene market, offering everything needed for a traditional nativity display.

Festivities and Special Events

Beyond shopping and dining, the Munich Christmas Market provides a comprehensive program of festive entertainment:

• Advent Music: Live Bavarian 'Stubenmusik' (traditional folk music), wind ensembles, singers, and choirs perform daily from the Town Hall balcony, typically from Sunday to Thursday at 5:15 PM, creating a magical atmosphere.
• Krampus Run: A unique and traditional event, the Krampuslauf (Krampus run) will take place on December 14, 2025, from 3:00 PM to 5:00 PM. This 500-year-old custom features 'wild fellows' like Krampus, Perchten, and Klause, attracting large crowds.
• Children's Activities: The 'Himmelswerkstatt' (Heavenly Workshop) offers children aged 6 to 12 a chance to engage in crafting and cookie baking.
• Christmas Post Office: Located in the Town Hall courtyard, a special post office allows visitors to send letters with an original 'Christkindl' stamp. It operates daily from November 24 to December 15, 2025, between 12:00 PM and 6:00 PM.

The market's operating hours are generally from 10:00 AM to 9:00 PM Monday through Saturday, and 10:00 AM to 8:00 PM on Sundays. On Christmas Eve, December 24, the market will close early at 2:00 PM. The event is organized by the Department of Labor and Economic Affairs (Referat für Arbeit und Wirtschaft) of the City of Munich.