What to Buy at German Christmas Markets

The Christmas market season is my favorite! There is so much to see and do that it is absolutely amazing.

One of the biggest questions I get: What do you buy at Christmas markets in Germany?

There is an array of souvenirs to pick up! This guide will help you sort out the best things to buy at German Christmas markets. Whether you’re on a budget or want to splurge on something truly magical! Save room in your suitcase for this Christmas cake! In my opinion this is the best place to end your shopping!

Entering a Christmas market in Germany is like entering a winter wonderland. Here, the air is filled with the scent of roasted chestnuts and spooky wine, and the atmosphere is filled with holiday cheer. One of the most fascinating aspects of visiting this market is the opportunity to explore the unique, handmade treasures on offer. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll take you through the must-have items you can find at German Christmas markets, from Glühwein mugs to ornaments, paper stars, quantums and more.

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Glühwein Mug: Perfect budget souvenir

Your German Christmas market experience begins with a steaming cup of Glühwein, a beloved spooky wine infused with spice and warmth. What makes this even more special is the collectible Glühwein Mug, which is often uniquely designed and features the emblem or theme of the specific market you are visiting. The design changes every year, making these mugs a popular souvenir. Take your Glühwein mug home and remember those cozy moments while sipping hot, saucy wine in the heart of the market.

The mugs often show the dates of the annual market! It’s a great collectible! It’s also great for your budget!

Paper stars: glow all year round

One of the most attractive and versatile items you can buy at German Christmas markets is the Paper Star Lantern. These delicate stars are made from colorful, translucent paper and decorated with intricate cut-out designs. They are traditionally used as holiday decorations and give off a warm, cozy glow when illuminated from the inside. But many people love them so much that they keep them all year round, adding a touch of deception and magic to their homes. These stars can be folded flat, making them ideal for souvenirs and gifts.

I love these because they are reasonably priced and easy to pack in your suitcase!

Accessories: German charm goes down the hall

German Christmas ornaments are renowned for their craftsmanship and attention to detail. From delicate glass figurines to intricately carved wooden figurines, you can find beautifully handcrafted ornaments at the market. These ornaments often depict festive scenes, traditional characters such as nutcrackers and angels, and symbols of Christmas such as snowflakes and gingerbread cookies. Decorating your tree with these treasures will infuse your home with the spirit of German Christmas.

Candle Holder: Light Up the Night

The soft, flickering light of candles is an essential part of the holiday atmosphere at German Christmas markets. To replicate this cozy atmosphere at home, consider purchasing a homemade candle holder or lantern from the market. These candle holders come in a variety of materials, such as wood, metal, and ceramics, and often feature festive designs such as winter scenes or holiday themes. Place this holder on your dining table or windowsill and it will infuse your space with a warm and inviting glow.

Sheepskins: cozy comfort for your home

As temperatures drop during the winter months, staying warm and comfortable becomes a top priority. At Christmas markets in Germany you can often find stalls selling wool products for everything from rugs to bra liners, baby carriages, shoes and mittens. These high quality sheepskin items will provide not only warmth but also rustic elegance to your home and wardrobe. Sheepskin’s plush texture and natural insulation make it a favorite among visitors looking for practicality and luxury.

handmade wooden treasures

No visit to Germany’s Christmas markets would be complete without admiring the exquisite handcrafted wooden items. 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 of these creations is truly awe-inspiring.

One of the iconic symbols of German Christmas markets is the wooden Christmas pyramid (Weihnachtspyramide). This colorful, multi-tiered structure features intricate wooden figurines that rotate when lit with candles to create a captivating sight. Owning one of these pyramids will bring some of this holiday magic into your own home.

Also consider purchasing a wooden candle arch (Schwibbogen) depicting scenes from traditional German life or Christmas traditions. Typically made of 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 decoration, these pieces embody the spirit of craftsmanship and art that defines Germany’s Christmas markets. Each wooden treasure tells a story and serves as a reminder of the ongoing traditions of the festive season.

Flavored Liquors: A Sip on Tradition

Flavored liquors are another delightful find at German Christmas markets. These drinks are often made with a base of spirits such as Schnapps or Rum and are infused with a variety of flavors. One popular choice is the Feuerzangenbowle. The Feuerzangenbowle makes for a spectacular show and a deliciously aromatic drink as the rum drips into a glass of wine that’s more fiery and spooky than Sugarloafs. You’ll also find fruit-infused liqueurs, herbal schnapps and spicy brandies, perfect for warming up on chilly evenings.

Gloves, hats and scarves: stay cozy in style

Winters in Germany can be quite chilly, and Christmas markets are no exception. To stay warm and stylish, explore the selection of gloves, hats and scarves available in the market. These accessories showcase traditional German craftsmanship, often in cozy materials like wool and fleece. Look for unique designs and patterns that reflect the festive spirit of the season. Whether you choose hand-knitted gloves or a fluffy pom-pom hat, these items will hug you while adding flair to your winter wardrobe.

Käthe Wolfart

Kathe Wohlfahrt is a famous German company specializing in Christmas. Their main store is located in Ob der Tauber in Rothenburg, but during the holiday season you can find fascinating pop-up shops at many German Christmas markets, including many in larger cities such as Munich, Nuremberg and Cologne.

Entering a Kathe Wohlfahrt store is like entering a Christmas Wonderland. The store is decorated with a variety of holiday decorations, ornaments and collectibles carefully curated to capture the magic of the season. Here you’ll find a wide range of handcrafted wooden items, from nutcrackers to pyramids, as well as exquisite glass ornaments and whimsical figurines.

One of Kathe Wohlfahrt’s striking features is its two-story-tall rotating Christmas tree. This is a place where you can lose yourself in the charm of the holiday season, and it’s a great place to pick up a unique and high-quality Christmas gift or decoration.

Whether you’re looking for a special addition to your ornament collection, a unique holiday gift, or simply to soak in the festive spirit, a visit to Kathe Wohlfahrt is a must on your German Christmas market adventure. Their treasures will undoubtedly add a touch of authentic German holiday magic to your celebrations.

Here’s a look inside this magic shop in Heidelberg!

Each market offers different things to buy, so you can explore as many markets as possible!

A visit to a German Christmas market is not just a shopping trip. It’s an immersive experience at the heart of holiday traditions and festive spirit. The items you bring home from this market are not just souvenirs. They are tangible memories of the magical moments of drinking gühwein, wandering the sparkling stalls, and embracing the warmth of the season. So whether it’s Glühwein mugs, ornaments, paper stars, sheep shells, candle holders, flavored liquors or cozy winter accessories, each item has the essence of a German Christmas market and is ready to infuse your home and life. With the magic of the season. Happy shopping!