Christmas Markets in Erlangen
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History & Culture
Erlangen's character was shaped in the late seventeenth century when Huguenot refugees fleeing religious persecution in France were invited to settle by the Brandenburgian margrave. These skilled Protestant craftsmen and merchants brought a cosmopolitan, industrious identity that distinguished the city from its Bavarian neighbors. The margrave developed Erlangen as a planned baroque residence town with wide avenues, formal gardens, and elegant civic architecture that define it today. The university's founding in 1743 further established Erlangen as a center of learning and culture. The city's Christmas market, held in the baroque market square, draws on centuries of Advent tradition and artisan craftsmanship rooted in the Huguenot heritage. It has evolved into a beloved seasonal gathering that reflects the welcoming spirit characterizing Erlangen since its founding.
7 markets • Sorted by popularity
Altstädter Weihnachtsmarkt
Described as the smallest and most charming of Erlangen's three Christmas markets, this intimate market enchants visitors in the shadow of the Trinity Church (Dreifaltigkeitskirche) on the most beautiful square in Erlangen's historic old town. Local retailers, associations, craftsmen, and musicians present an authentic neighborhood market experience, with a lively stage program on weekends and the option to rent a VIP yurt for private gatherings.
Erlanger Waldweihnacht
Erlangen's largest and most beloved Christmas market transforms the Schloßplatz in front of the historic Erlangen Palace into a wintry forest grove, filled with countless real fir trees, soft woodland flooring, and warm lighting. Visitors can browse unique handcrafted gifts, enjoy traditional food and warm drinks, and take in a diverse free stage program with live music performances throughout the season. A Christmas tree market (Christbaummarkt) also operates within the same grounds, starting slightly later in December.
Erlanger Winterzauber
Erlangen's overarching Christmas season event brings together three distinct Christmas markets across the city center, each with its own unique theme and atmosphere. The umbrella event also includes an ice skating rink and children's attractions, transforming the university town into a festive destination throughout the Advent season.
Erlanger Winterzauber - Altstädter Kirchenplatz
Location of the Altstädter Weihnachtsmarkt, the northernmost and most intimate of the three markets
Erlanger Winterzauber - Neustädter Kirchenplatz
Location of the Historischer Weihnachtsmarkt with medieval atmosphere around the New Town Church
Erlanger Winterzauber - Schloßplatz
Main location hosting the Erlanger Waldweihnacht forest Christmas market in front of the Erlangen Palace
Historischer Weihnachtsmarkt Erlangen
Set around the New Town Church, this atmospheric market transports visitors back to the Middle Ages with medieval market stalls, stilt walkers, jugglers, fire breathers, and musicians bringing historic traditions to life. Culinary highlights include fire tongs punch (Feuerzangenbowle), hot mead, and hearty medieval fare such as soup served in bread bowls, making it one of Erlangen's most distinctive and popular Christmas markets.
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