For me, the Lucia Christmas Market in Prenzlauer Berg is one of the most beautiful Christmas markets in Berlin. The size is manageable, there are stalls that offer their wares away from the usual “socks and caps stalls” and delicious mulled wine!
The Kulturbrauerei in Berlin is a historic building ensemble that is now a vibrant cultural meeting place in Prenzlauer Berg/Pankow. The Lucia Christmas Market is held here every year at Christmas time.
In the Nordic countries, Lucia is regarded as the bringer of light in the dark season. The Lucia custom originates from Sweden and is celebrated on 13 December, St Lucia’s Day. Before the introduction of the Gregorian calendar in Sweden, it was the shortest day of the year. The celebration begins early in the morning and continues throughout the day. Lucia, a girl wears a white robe, a red ribbon around her waist and a wreath with candles on her head. She leads the way through the villages, followed by other girls with candles in their hands. At the Lucia Christmas Market, this tradition is also displayed and Nordic Christmas carols are sung.
The motto of the Lucia Christmas Market is “Nordic countries”. Here you will find about 60 stalls with Icelandic, Finnish, Swedish and Norwegian specialities. You’ll find many different types of mulled wine, from Glögg and Finnish Glögi to Icelandic mulled wine. We try a different variety every year and so far it has always tasted good. There’s always something tasty to eat at the Christmas market in the Kulturbrauerei to stave off hunger, too. In addition to reindeer sausage, we’ve also tried wild boar burgers. Really delicious! I particularly enjoyed the baked apple with vanilla sauce, which is always the crowning glory.
I particularly like the fact that you can also find other stalls here that you don’t see at every Christmas market. From handmade children’s toys and jewellery to clothing, there are beautiful gift ideas here.
The Christmas market usually opens in the early afternoon. At this time, you can meet families who want to visit Father Christmas. Every day from 5 to 6 p.m. you have the opportunity to do so. Towards evening, when it gets dark, the fairground begins to glow. Little lights shine everywhere and you can hear German Christmas carols as well as Swedish Christmas songs. Even when there is no snow, this Christmas market always gives me a cosy and cheerful feeling.
Leave a Reply