Christmas market season is my favorite season! There is so much to see and do that it is truly amazing.
One of the most common questions I get asked is what do you buy at the German Christmas markets?
A variety of souvenirs are available! This guide will help you sort out the best things to buy at German Christmas markets. Are you on a tight budget or want to do something truly magical? So make sure you save space in your suitcase for all these Christmas gifts! I think this is the best place to get your shopping done!
Stepping into a German Christmas market is like stepping into a winter wonderland. The air is filled with the scent of roasted chestnuts and mulled wine, and the atmosphere is filled with holiday cheer. One of the most fascinating aspects of visiting these markets is the opportunity to explore the unique, handcrafted treasures on offer. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through the essential items you can find at German Christmas markets, from Glühwein mugs to ornaments, paper stars, sheepskins and more.
Glühwein Mug: Perfect budget souvenir
The German Christmas market experience begins with a glass of Glühwein, a beloved mulled wine infused with spice and warmth. What makes this treat even more special is the collectible Glühwein mug that comes with it. These mugs are often uniquely designed and feature the emblem or theme of the specific market you are visiting. This mug is a popular souvenir as its design changes every year. Take your Glühwein mug home and reminisce about cozy moments spent sipping hot mulled wine in the heart of the market.
Mugs are often marked with the annual market date! This is a great collectible! Plus, it’s great for your budget!
Paper star: glows all year round
One of the most attractive and varied items available at German Christmas markets is paper star lanterns. These delicate stars are made from colorful, translucent paper and decorated with intricate cut-out designs. Traditionally used as holiday decorations, they give off a warm and cozy glow when illuminated from within. But many people love it so much that they keep it all year round and add whimsy and magic to their homes. This star is easy to fold flat, making it a great souvenir or gift.
I especially love this because it’s reasonably priced and easy to throw in my suitcase!
❄️ European packaging essentials! ❄️
🧥 coat – A must for winter travel! This doesn’t disappoint
👖 thermal leggings – Keeps you warm all day long.
👕 thermal undershirt – Add warmth
🥾 boots– This product remains comfortable and sturdy enough to be worn in the snow.
🧦 wool socks– Keep your feet warm and dry.
🧤 phone compatible gloves – Allows you to take photos of Christmas lights!
🧳 luggage – This is for my carry-on!
🔌 universal adapter – Best for country hopping
👜 crossbody bag – Best for keeping your hands free and keeping your items safe.
☃️ beanie – A must-have for staying warm and looking cute!
🔥 hand warmer – The secret to never being cold!
🧣 scarf – So the secret to packing less is to use accessories like scarves to change the look!
Get the full packing list here!
Decorations: Decorate your halls with German charm
German Christmas decorations are famous for their craftsmanship and attention to detail. At the market, you can find a variety of beautifully handcrafted decorations, from delicate glass ornaments to intricately carved wooden figurines. These ornaments often depict festive scenes, traditional characters such as nutcrackers and angels, and Christmas symbols such as snowflakes and gingerbread cookies. Decorating your tree with these treasures will infuse your home with the German Christmas spirit.
Candle Holder: Light Up the Night
The soft, flickering light of candles is an integral part of the holiday atmosphere of German Christmas markets. To recreate this cozy atmosphere at home, try purchasing handmade candle holders or lanterns from the market. These candle holders are made from a variety of materials, including wood, metal, and ceramics, and often feature festive designs such as winter scenes or holiday motifs. Place this holder on your dining table or windowsill and it will add a warm and inviting glow to your space.
Wool: Cozy Comfort for Your Home
In winter, when temperatures drop, staying warm and comfortable is a top priority. At German Christmas markets, you’ll often find stalls selling sheepskin products, from rugs to stroller liners, shoes and gloves. These high-quality sheepskin products will bring not only warmth but also a touch of rustic elegance to your home and wardrobe. The luxurious texture and natural insulation of sheepskin makes it popular with visitors looking for both practicality and luxury.
hand made wooden treasures
A visit to a Christmas market in Germany would not be complete without admiring the exquisite handcrafted wooden items on display. These treasures are often crafted by skilled artisans using traditional woodworking techniques passed down through generations. From intricately carved nativity scenes to charming wooden ornaments, nutcrackers and toys, the craftsmanship behind these creations is truly awe-inspiring.
One of the iconic symbols of German Christmas markets is the wooden Christmas pyramid (Weihnachtspyramide). This ornate multi-tiered structure features intricate wooden sculptures that rotate when lit by candles, creating a captivating sight. Owning one of these pyramids will allow you to take some of this Christmas magic home.
Also consider purchasing a wooden candle arch (Schwibbogen) depicting scenes from traditional German life or Christmas traditions. Typically crafted from beautifully stained wood, these candle arches add a warm, rustic charm to your holiday decor.
Whether you choose a handcrafted wooden nativity set, a whimsical nutcracker or a timeless wooden ornament, these products embody the spirit of craftsmanship and artistry that defines German Christmas markets. Each wooden treasure tells a story and is a reminder of the ongoing traditions of the festival.
Flavored Liquor: Savoring Tradition
Flavored liquors are another delightful find at German Christmas markets. These drinks are often based on distilled spirits such as schnapps or rum, with various flavors added. One popular choice is the Feuerzangenbowle, which involves flaming rum over a dollop of sugar and dropping it into a glass of mulled wine, making for a great show and a delicious, aromatic drink. You’ll also find fruity liqueurs, herbal schnapps and spicy brandies to warm you up on cold evenings.
Gloves, hats, scarves: stay cozy in style
Winters in Germany can be quite cold, and Christmas markets are no exception. To stay warm and stylish, browse our selection of gloves, hats and scarves on the market. These accessories often showcase traditional German craftsmanship, using cozy materials such as wool and fleece. Find unique designs and patterns that reflect the festive spirit of the season. Whether you choose hand-knitted mittens or a fluffy pom-pom hat, these items will keep you cozy while adding a little flair to your winter wardrobe.
Kethe Ulfart
Kathe Wohlfahrt is a famous German company specializing in all things Christmas-related. The main store is in Rothenburg ob der Tauber, but during the holiday season you can find charming pop-up shops at many of Germany’s Christmas markets, including those in big cities like Munich, Nuremberg and Cologne.
Stepping into a Kathe Wohlfahrt store is like entering a Christmas wonderland. The store is decorated with a variety of holiday decorations, trinkets and collectibles, each item carefully curated to capture the magic of the season. Here you’ll find a wide range of handcrafted wooden items, from nutcrackers to pyramids, elaborate glass ornaments and whimsical sculptures.
One of Kathe Wohlfahrt’s striking features is the rotating Christmas tree that reaches two stories high. It’s a place to immerse yourself in the magic of the holidays and a great place to buy unique, high-quality Christmas gifts or decorations.
If you’re looking for something special to add to your ornament collection, a unique holiday gift, or simply soak up the festive spirit, be sure to visit Kathe Wohlfahrt while exploring German Christmas markets. Their treasures will undoubtedly add some authentic German holiday magic to your celebrations.
Take a look inside this magical store in Heidelberg!
Each market has different items available for purchase, so explore as many markets as you can!
A visit to a German Christmas market is more than just a shopping trip. This is an experience that immerses you in the heart of holiday traditions and festive spirit. The items you bring home from this market are more than just souvenirs. It is a tangible memory of the magical moments spent sipping Glühwein, wandering between the glittering stalls and embracing the warmth of the season. So whether it’s a Glühwein mug, ornament, paper star, sheepskin, candle holder, scented tassel or cozy winter accessory, each item captures the essence of the German Christmas market, ready to infuse into your home and life. With the charm of the season. Happy shopping!
