The Don’ts of German Christmas Markets
Merry Christmas! Today we’re drinking glühwein and eating bratwursts, which are things you do at the Christmas markets. But this post is about the things you *don’t* do at German Christmas Markets.
German Christmas Market Tip #1: Don’t Come Too Early
While the US stores start Christmas decorations in September,that’s not the case in Europe. In Germany, the Christmas markets don’t start until the first Sunday of Advent. Late November is the earliest you will see Christmas markets, but early December is more likely.
German Christmas Market Tip #2: Don’t Come Too Late
Christmas markets in Germany typically don’t last past Christmas day. Some of the German Christmas markets even close as early as the 21st of December. December 24, 25 and 26 are all holidays in Germany. Now, some major cities will have markets that last beyond Christmas, especially as these become more popular with tourists, but it’s not the norm.
German Christmas Market Tip #3: Don’t Think Glühwein is the Only Hot Beverage
If you don’t drink alcohol or just don’t like glühwein, there are other options for warm drinks at the Christmas markets. There’s a kids’ punch and hot chocolate, plus other warm drinks with alcohol.
German Christmas Market Tip #4: Don’t Forget the Pfand
Don’t forget about the pfand, or deposit, on the Christmas mug when you purchase your drinks. The pfand can be as much as the drinks cost, so it adds up quickly. Don’t forget to return the mug to get your deposit back. In Munich, we’ve paid as much as 5 Euro per mug.
German Christmas Market Tip #5: Don’t Feel You Have to Return the Mug
On the other hand, if you want to keep the mugs as souvenirs, you can. That’s what the pfand is for; if you keep the mug, you forfeit the pfand. Just remember you have to pack them all up and get them home in one piece, but they do make great souvenirs.
German Christmas Market Tip #6: Don’t Count Calories at the Christmas Markets
There are so many great things to eat and drink at the Christmas markets. In addition to glühwein and egg nog, there’s amazing food, like bratwursts, fried dough, nuts, gingerbread and so much more. Don’t bother worrying about calories; just enjoy it all.
German Christmas Market Tip #7: Don’t Hog the Tables
You’ll see little tables around the Christmas markets where people stand to eat their food, or rest their drinks. Sharing these tables is a great way to meet some of the locals, so don’t hog the tables to yourself.
German Christmas Market Tip #8: Don’t Buy Everything You See
There are so many cute things to buy at the Christmas markets,but don’t feel like you have to buy everything you see. Take your time toe xplore the shops and see what you can’t live without. It’s so easy to go overboard
German Christmas Market Tip #9: Don’t Buy the Gingerbread Hearts
You’ll see lots of cute heart-shaped gingerbreads, with writing on them. Don’t eat those; eat the regular gingerbread cookies. The smaller cookie versions are much tastier.
German Christmas Market Tip #10: Don’t Skip the Small Town Markets
Don’t just visit the big city Christmas markets in Germany. The small towns have some really great Christmas markets, too
German Christmas Market Tip #11: Don’t Forget to Dress for Cold
You will probably be outside for a long time, so make sure you are dressed accordingly. Even if it’s in the 30’s and above freezing, that can be pretty cold after a few hours. Make sure to bring gloves and a hat to keep warm! Warm, comfortable walking shoes are also a must!
German Christmas Market Tip #12: Don’t Forget About Day Trips
Even if you are based in a larger city, it’s still possible to visit the smaller towns and their Christmas markets on a day trip from the city. Train travel is easy and everywhere in Germany. So you don’t have to pack your bags and change hotels to experience several Christmas markets in Germany.
German Christmas Market Tip #13: Don’t Forget to Bring Cash
A lot of these market stalls are small mom-and-pop operations,and many of them don’t take credit cards. It’s best to just bring the cash you’ll need so you don’t have to worry about it once you arrive. Remember, cash is definitely king at the Christmas markets.
For more tips about traveling Europe in winter, check out theseblog posts and videos:
- Unique European Christmas Traditions
- Five Things You’ll Love & Hate About German Christmas Markets
- Five Things You’ll Love & Hate About Christmas in Europe
Five Things You’ll Love & Hate About Traveling Europe in Winter