Christmas markets

Each year in December, a very special atmosphere is spreading throughout Thuringia – it’s Christmas time! Towns and villages are being decorated, Christmas markets open their doors and the wonderful smell of “Stollen” (Christmas cake) and “Glühwein” (mulled wine) is everywhere. Many of Germany’s favourite Christmas traditions have their origins in Thuringia. In 1816, Weimar hosted the first public Christmas tree, erected on the Market Square for children whose parents could not afford their own. Nearby Lauscha was the birthplace of glass Christmas tree decorations which were first produced here about 160 years ago. Last but not least, many popular Christmas carols were inspired in this part of the world. For a wonderful sense of the Christmas tradition, visitors should head for one of the many Christmas markets. The most famous one takes place in Erfurt, the capital of Thuringia. The setting on the magnificent Cathedral Square provides a unique atmosphere. A very special Christmas market is held in the courtyard of the impressive Wartburg Castle – UNESCO World Heritage – in Eisenach. On four weekends in Advent medieval times come back to life here and visitors can enjoy typical food, drinks, crafts, music and entertainment.

25.11. – 22.12.2010
160th Erfurt Christmas Market
Largest Christmas market in Thuringia spreading through the whole town centre e.g. with medieval Christmas market; the main part takes place on the Cathedral Square: the impressive background of St. Mary’s Cathedral and St. Severus Church forms the perfect setting for more than 200 booths, a large pyramid and a big ferry’ wheel
http://www.erfurt-tourismus.de/

25.11. - 26.12.2010
Floral decorations at Christmas”, Christmas flower decoration show
Erfurt

27.11. – 22.12.2010
Weimar Christmas Market

26.11. – 22.12.2010
Christmas Market Jena

1st and 2nd weekend in Advent 2010
Original Lauscha Christmas Baubles Market
Lauscha
Colored glass Christmas tree decoration is famous all over the world and was invented in the small town of Lauscha in the Thuringian Forest, on two weekends in Advent visitors can enjoy and buy these decorations in all shapes and colors

1st, 2nd, 3rd and 4th weekend in Advent 2010
Historic Christmas Market at Wartburg Castle
Eisenach
Romantic historic Christmas market in the inner court of Wartburg castle: artists and tumblers, craftsmen and knights, colourful booths and matching decorations transfer visitors to long-gone times; one highlight: the medieval sauna!
www.wartburg.de

1st and 2nd weekend in Advent 2010
Medieval Christmas Market at Wilhelmsburg Castle
Schmalkalden

2nd weekend in Advent 2010
Crafts&Arts Market in Elisabethenburg Palace
Meiningen

05.12.2010
Nikolaus Market at Kochberg Castle
Großkochberg