It glitters and twinkles, music plays softly and the unmistakable smell of Christmas floats through the air. Time to discover the Christmas markets in Erlangen.
Every year in November and December, the city centre is transformed into Erlangen’s winter magic. You can discover an ice rink and three Christmas markets. And the best thing about it – it’s all just a short walk away.
Let’s start our Christmas stroll right in front of the Schloßplatz. The largest of Erlangen’s Christmas markets is located directly in front of Erlangen Castle.
Erlanger Waldweihnacht
Erlangen Margrave’s Palace is an impressive backdrop for the Erlangen Waldweihnacht (Forest Christmas). The imposing statue of Margrave Friedrich von Brandenburg-Bayreuth is surrounded by wooden stalls that are festively illuminated in the dark. A pleasant aroma of mulled wine and roasted almonds wafts past, tempting you to take a little stroll.
The small market stalls offer a colourful variety that makes every anticipation of Christmas greater. On a tour, I discover the classic Christmas tree decorations made of different materials, in many colours and from modern to traditional. But you can also find products made of wool, leather, wood & silver, gift ideas for all ages at the Christmas market. Some of you are sure to find a nice gift for your loved ones here.
Of course, there is also plenty to eat and drink. Sweet temptations such as roasted almonds or chocolate products, savoury dishes from the grill or vegetarian specialities are sure to ensure that no visitor goes home hungry. I ate a “horseradish bratwurst” here. The sausage is topped with pickled horseradish. Careful, not too much – it’s spicy! I really enjoyed the combination!
Mulled wine, punch and mulled beer are of course a must. There are numerous stands offering these drinks.
Music is of course also provided. A varied programme is offered on a stage.
Opening hours:
From the end of November up to and including Christmas Eve, 24 December. Monday – Thursday: 10 am – 9 pm Friday + Saturday: 10 am – 9.30 pm Sunday: 11am – 9pm
Christmas Eve: 11 am – 2 pm
Skating at the Christmas market in Erlangen
In keeping with the winter Christmas season, you can also go ice skating in Erlangen. The “Erlangen like on Ice” skating rink is located directly opposite Palais Stutterheim on Schlossplatz.
Since 2022, skaters have been turning the odd pirouette here on plastic plates that are almost like ice but do not require cooling. The skating behaviour is almost identical to skating on ice and after a short time you will hardly notice any difference.
In addition to ice skating, it is also possible to play a round of curling at certain times.
Historic Christmas market on Neustadt’s church square
The Historical Christmas Market in Erlangen takes place until the day before Christmas. I think it exudes a very special flair. Small market stalls are set up by the Neustadt church and jugglers and musicians perform their art on a stage, often emphasising the medieval flair. Children are also catered for, with medieval crossbow shooting and can throwing on offer.
Here you can drink Feuerzangenbowle or hot mead while the lyres and lutes play. If you want something to eat, you can enjoy soup in bread or lángos, for example.
Address:
Neustädter Kirchenplatz, Erlangen
Opening hours:
Monday – Thursday: 10:30 am – 9 pm Friday – Saturday: 10:30 am – 9:30 pm Sunday: 11 am – 9 pm
Old Town Christmas Market on the Old Town Church Square
The smallest and finest Christmas market in the city can be found on the small Altstädter Kirchplatz square in Erlangen’s old town. There are no crowds here, no Christmas carols playing on a continuous loop – it’s quieter, but no less Christmassy.
In the shadow of the Holy Trinity Church, many clubs, retailers and craftsmen offer a wide variety of goods. In addition, a colourful programme takes place on a stage. If you want, you can rent a VIP yurt here and celebrate with friends, colleagues and family.
I drank a great quince punch here, which was wonderfully warming after a wintry walk through the city.
Somayeh Kianpour
Hello, I was wondering if you could give me some information about how I can get one market to represent resin dishes and resin clocks.