Leipzig Christmas Market is an annual traditional holiday market held in Leipzig, Germany. It is one of Germany's oldest and largest Christmas markets, attracting over 2 million visitors each year. The Leipzig Christmas market takes place in several squares around the city, which is the Augustusplatz Square. The Christmas market opens on Tuesday, November 28, 2023 and closes on Saturday, December 23, 2023. It features 250 wooden stalls selling Christmas wares, foods and drinks, highlights such as the towering Christmas tree on Augustusplatz and live music performances. Nearby events include concerts and holiday exhibits at the Museum of Fine Arts.
What is the Leipzig Christmas Market?
Leipzig Christmas Market is a traditional Christmas market held annually in Leipzig, Germany. It is one of the oldest and largest Christmas markets in Germany. The market spans several city squares in the historic city center, with the main market located at Old Town Hall Square. It attracts over 2 million visitors each year. The Leipzig Christmas Market features over 250 wooden stalls and cabins that sell traditional Christmas wares, ornaments, toys, local crafts and food and drink. There is a large Christmas tree that towers over the market, with live music, choirs and performances to entertain visitors.
The Leipzig Christmas Market was interrupted from 1939 to 1944 during World War II when private commerce was banned under Nazi control. The market was revived in 1946, starting small with only 32 stalls. The Leipzig Christmas Market became an important symbol of holiday spirit and tradition for the people of Leipzig following the difficulties of the war. This allowed the market to keep growing in size and popularity. The Leipzig Christmas Market transformed into one of Germany's largest and most famous holiday markets.
When will the Leipzig Christmas Market open for 2023?
Leipzig Christmas Market opens on Tuesday, November 28, 2023 and closes on Saturday, December 23, 2023. The market is open on Sundays to Thursdays from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m., Fridays and Saturdays from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m.
Where is the Leipzig Christmas Market taking place?
Leipzig Christmas Market's location is at the Market Square is Markt, 04109 Leipzig, Germany. Augustusplatz Square is one of the Christmas markets in Leipzig. Augustusplatz Square is a large public square located in the center of Leipzig. It is located between the Opera House and the New Town Hall on its northern and southern ends.
Why should you visit the Leipzig Christmas Market?
Listed below are the reasons why you should visit the Leipzig Christmas Market.
- Experience the festive atmosphere. Experience the festive atmosphere at Leipzig Christmas Market, where the city center is transformed into a winter wonderland. The open spaces become crowded during the Christmas season, with wooden stalls selling food, drinks and handmade crafts.
- Sample traditional German food and drink. Sample traditional German food and drink and taste the array of delicious German treats on offer. The seasonal flavors that the Leipzig Christmas market offers to its visitors set the holiday mood.
- Shop for handmade crafts and ornaments. Shop for handmade crafts and ornaments with over 200 stalls at the Leipzig Christmas market. There are rows of stalls to discover that feature traditional wooden toys, incense smokers, nutcrackers, Advent calendars, glass ornaments, jewelry, knitwear and more.
- Shows and Parades. Shows and parades at Leipzig Christmas markets entertain visitors. There are talented choirs that serenade the visitors with classic carols and choral renditions of holiday tunes. Folk dance groups take the stage in traditional costumes, twirling and stomping to upbeat Christmas music. Theatrical troupes perform comedic skits, musicals and plays with a holiday twist.
What is the cost of entering the Leipzig Christmas Market?
Leipzig Christmas Market does not charge an entry fee. Access to the market squares and streets is completely free. Visitors can wander the stalls, displays and attractions without needing to buy a ticket. The only optional costs involved would be fees for rides, Christmas concerts, food, drinks and handcrafted souvenirs and jewelry. Rides from carousels, bumper cars and other rides require individual tickets and the price starts from €10 ($10, £8). Christmas concert ticket prices vary but usually start from €5 ($5, £4). Food and drinks such as bratwursts, potato pancakes, sweets, mulled wine and hot beverages range between €2 ($2, £1) to €8 ($8, £7). Handcrafted souvenirs and jewellries can range from €5 ($5, £4) for small items to over €100 ($107, £87).
What are the attractions close to the Leipzig Christmas Market?
Listed below are the attractions close to Leipzig Christmas Markets.
- St. Thomas Church. St. Thomas Chuch is a 13th-century church that seats around 1,200 people. Bach is buried here, along with over 50 other notable figures. It has been Bach’s burial place since 1950, making it one of the top things to see near Leipzig Christmas markets. St. Thomas Church receives over 200,000 Christmas market visitors from November to December.
- Auerbachs Keller. Auerbachs Keller is located 0.5 kilometers (0.31 miles) from Leipzig Christmas markets. The cellar vaults of this Renaissance building house a historic restaurant and bar that is famous as the setting for a scene in Goethe's Faust. The market welcomes 20,000 Christmas market guests annually.
- The Museum of Fine Arts. The Museum of Fine Arts is 1.5 kilometers (0.9 miles) from the popular Leipzig Christmas Market. This renowned art museum houses an expansive collection of paintings, sculptures and drawings from medieval times up through the modern era. The museum experiences a surge of Christmas market visitors at 25,000 during this busy time of year. Many tourists combine a trip to the Christmas market with a visit to the museum to take in some culture and history.
Is there an alternative name for the Leipzig Christmas Market?
Yes, the Leipzig Christmas Markets is sometimes referred to by an alternative name for “Leipziger Weihnachtsmarkt”. This is the name in German, as “Weihnachtsmarkt” means “Christmas market” in German. The Leipzig Christmas Market is located in the German state of Saxony, the German name is commonly used by locals and in promotional materials. The most common names used in English are the “Leipzig Christmas Market” or just “Leipzig Weihnachtsmarkt”. This popular holiday market has developed an international reputation. English speakers visiting abroad will refer to it using its well-known English name.
What are the Leipzig Christmas Market's impacts on the Local Economy and Tourism?
Leipzig Christmas Market has a significant positive impact on the local economy and tourism in Leipzig. These are economic boosts, employment opportunities, promotion of tourism and cultural significance. The market significantly bolsters the local economy by fostering increased commercial activity. The Leipzig Christmas Market creates job opportunities for residents, directly and indirectly. The demand for seasonal staff in various sectors, such as retail, hospitality and event management, increases as businesses require additional manpower to cater to the influx of visitors. The Leipzig Christmas Market plays a pivotal role in attracting tourists from across the country and around the world. The influx of tourists contributes to the city's visibility as a prominent cultural and festive destination, encouraging extended stays and further exploration of Leipzig's attractions beyond the market. The Leipzig Christmas Market holds cultural significance for locals and tourists alike. This cultural appeal not only retains local heritage but also enriches the experience of visitors, making it a must-visit destination during the Christmas market period.
Is the Leipzig Christmas Market better than the Dresden Christmas Market?
It depends. Both the Leipzig Christmas Market and Dresden Christmas Market are popular holiday markets in Germany, each with its own unique history, settings and atmosphere. Leipzig's Christmas Market also has origins in the 1900s. It has over 2 million visitors to fill Leipzig's squares and pedestrian zones, creating a lively setting featuring traditional decorations, toys, foods and entertainment. Dresden's Christmas Market is steeped in tradition, dating back to 1434 and one of the oldest in Germany. It unfolds across different squares and streets in Dresden's historic city center along the Elbe River. The medieval setting pairs beautifully with the market's classical focus on local arts, crafts, foods and music that represent Saxon cultural heritage. Dresen has over 250 wooden stalls and 3 million annual Christmas market visitors. Both have unique qualities. Determining which is “better” depends on personal preferences.
What food can visitors eat at the Leipzig Christmas Market?
Listed below are the best German food visitors can eat in the Leipzig Christmas markets.
- Stollen. Stollen is a fruit bread that originated in Germany. It contains dried fruit, nuts and spices. Stollen is a traditional Christmas food and is popular at the Leipzig Christmas markets.
- Gingerbread. Gingerbread is called lebkuchen in German. Decorative gingerbread hearts and figures are sold at the famous Leipzig Christmas Market.
- Thuringer Bratwurst. Thuringer bratwurst is a type of sausage from the Thuringia region of Germany. It is made from ground pork and a blend of spices. Bratwurst is often grilled and served on a bun. It is a popular street food item at the Leipzig Christmas Market.
- Grobrot. Grobrot refers to coarse rye bread or rye rolls. These breads are typical of German cuisine. Grobrot is served at food stalls at the Leipzig Christmas Market.
- Potato pancakes. Potato pancakes, known as kartoffelpuffer or reibekuchen in German, are made from grated potatoes, onion and eggs fried into pancakes. They are topped with applesauce or other condiments. Potato pancakes are a beloved treat at Christmas markets.
What to drink at the Leipzig Christmas Market?
Listed below are the drinks you can have at Leipzig Christmas Market.
- Glühwein (Mulled Wine). Glühwein is a traditional hot spiced red wine that is a must-have drink at any Christmas market in Europe. Glühwein is available at Leipzig Christmas markets. It is usually served in commemorative mugs that you can take home.
- Gingerbread Liqueur. Gingerbread liqueur is an alcoholic spirit flavored with common gingerbread spices. It often contains cinnamon, cloves, vanilla and honey. Gingerbread liqueur can be enjoyed straight up as a shot or added to coffee or cocoa. It allows visitors of Leipzig Christmas markets to taste the gingerbread flavors in liquid form.
- Hot Chocolate. Hot Chocolate, made from melted chocolate shavings and steamed milk, is a traditional drink available at many vendors at the Leipzig Christmas market that is topped with piles of whipped cream or marshmallows.
- Fruit Wines. Fruit Wines using strawberries, raspberries, blueberries and other fruits are a specialty in Leipzig. Fruit wines are often sweetened and sometimes fortified with brandy or other spirits. These fruit wines are available in the Leipzig Christmas market.
What can people buy at the Leipzig Christmas Market?
Listed below are the things you can buy at Leipzig Christmas Markets.
- Christmas Ornaments. Christmas ornaments are decorative objects used to adorn Christmas trees and homes during the holiday season. Ornament stalls at the Leipzig Christmas markets offer a variety of glass, wooden and handcrafted ornaments featuring Christmas symbols and designs. These make for great holiday souvenirs and gifts.
- Nutcrackers. Nutcrackers are traditional Christmas decorations, often carved into figures like toy soldiers or kings. Vendors at the Leipzig Christmas markets sell nutcrackers of different sizes, shapes and colors. Nutcrackers make unique collectible gifts.
- Advent Calendars. Advent Calendars are a traditional part of German Christmas celebrations, used to count down the days leading up to Christmas. Vendors at the Leipzig Christmas markets sell a wide variety of advent calendars.
How to get to the Leipzig Christmas Market?
There are four ways to get to Leipzig Christmas Markets. These are by plane, train, metro, taxi and on foot. Firstly, by plane, Leipzig Halle Airport is a major international airport located about 14 kilometers (0.6 miles) northwest of Leipzig city center. It offers connections to destinations across Europe and Germany. Secondly, by train, Leipzig Hauptbahnhof is the main train station in Leipzig. Long-distance high-speed ICE trains provide direct connections to Leipzig from cities like Berlin and Munich in 1-2 hours. The Christmas markets are an easy 10-minute walk straight along the main shopping street. Thirdly, by metro, Leipzig has an extensive network of trams and buses that crisscross the city. Several lines stop directly at the Christmas market area. Take tram lines 3, 7, 8, 10 or 15 for 2-3 stops to reach the market's main entrances if you are from the Hauptbahnhof train station. Exit at stops like Augustusplatz or Markt and you will be in the center of the market area. Lastly, on foot, the markets are located right in the center of Leipzig's historic city center. You can easily walk there from downtown hotels, restaurants, shops and attractions. The main market entrance is at the Market Square.
Where to stay in Leipzig during the Leipzig Christmas Market?
Listed below are the best hotels to stay near the Leipzig Christmas Market.
- The Westin Leipzig. The Westin Leipzig offers an ideal location to stay when visiting the Leipzig Christmas markets. It is located 0.6 kilometers from the market area and within walking distance to the key attractions. Visitors can enjoy modern amenities, including an on-site spa and restaurant. The central location, luxurious rooms and proximity to the markets make The Westin Leipzig a recommended option for places to stay in Germany for the Christmas market season.
- Cityherberge. Cityherberge is a youth hostel in Leipzig's city center located 0.35 kilometers (0.2 miles) from the Leipzig Christmas market hotspots of Naschmarkt. It provides affordable shared and private room accommodations with a lounge and kitchen. Cityherberge's central location is perfect for accessing the Christmas markets on foot.
- Abito Suites Leipzig. Abito Suites Leipzig is an apartment-style suite that is 0.6 kilometers (0.4 miles) from Leipzig's Christmas markets. Guests can enjoy amenities, including a fitness room, bar and 24-hour reception. The suites have fully-equipped kitchens and separate living areas, providing relaxed accommodations ideal for families and groups visiting the market
What are the best restaurants to eat in Leipzig?
Listed below are the best restaurants in Leipzig.
- Auerbachs Keller. Auerbachs Keller is a historic restaurant located right in the city center within the famous Mädler Passage, just 0.1 kilometers (0.06 miles) from the Leipzig Christmas Market. Auerbachs Keller serves traditional German cuisine, which makes eating in Germany a new level of experience. The restaurant serves roast pork, schnitzel and their specialty baked potato pancakes. Their seasonal dishes creatively use local Saxony ingredients whose price starts at €45 ($48, £38).
- Zill's Tunnel. Zill's Tunnel is a high-end gourmet restaurant located 0.2 kilometers (0.12 miles) from the Leipzig Christmas Market at Augustusplatz. They are known for exquisite contemporary dishes and wine pairings in a refined setting inside a historic railway tunnel. Their creative modern menus earned a Michelin star that is priced at €145 ($156, £125).
- Barthels Hof. Barthels Hof is a traditional Leipzig restaurant located 0.3 kilometers (0.19 miles) from the Leipzig Christmas market. Barthels Hof offers refined German cuisine in an elegant setting inside the historic city hall. Their Saxonian recipes are cooked fresh daily and cost €12 ($13, £10) per meal.
- Stadtpfeiffer. Stadtpfeiffer specializes in classic Saxonian fare. Stadtpfeiffer is just 0.3 kilometers (0.2 miles) from the Leipzig Christmas markets at Augustusplatz. They serve delicious roast goose, tender ribs and locally brewed beer in a rustic interior. Stadtpfeiffer offers elegant and rustic settings with lunch and dinner entrees starting at €12 ($13, £10).
PIN FOR LATER
Find below the Christmas Markets guides across the world.
