Mainzer WinterZeit - Hopfengarten

Tucked away at the end of Augustinerstraße in Mainz's charming Altstadt, the Mainzer WinterZeit market at Hopfengarten transforms this intimate urban garden into a cozy winter oasis each holiday season. Part of the broader Weihnachtsstadt Mainz celebration, this smaller WinterZeit location offers a quieter, more relaxed alternative to the grand Historic Christmas Market at the cathedral squares, making it a favorite for locals and visitors seeking a more neighborhood feel. The Hopfengarten market enchants guests with atmospheric festive lighting strung overhead and a curated selection of creative mulled drink varieties — known locally as GlühGetränke — that go well beyond the classic Glühwein. Families with young children will appreciate the winterliches Karussell (winter carousel) on-site, adding a touch of old-fashioned charm to the experience. The market is also a participating stop on the popular GlühWeinWalk, a self-guided tasting tour of Mainz's Christmas markets where a single ticket (€25–€26) covers mulled wine, mulled gin, and festive snacks at selected stalls across the city. Unlike several other WinterZeit locations that extend into late December, the Hopfengarten market runs only through December 23, so planning your visit before the holiday is essential. Opening hours begin at 1:00 PM daily — later than other Mainz markets — with Sunday through Thursday hours until 8:30 PM and Friday and Saturday until 9:00 PM. Whether you stop in for a warm drink after exploring the Altstadt or make it a dedicated evening outing, the Hopfengarten market delivers an authentically festive and unhurried Mainz Christmas experience.