One of the little things that caught my attention were the fruit people: Originating as children’s toys from the Thirty Years War, the Plum Man or Zwetschgenmännle, is made from dried plums, nuts, and figs. They are oddly cute and you will see them all over the market.

There are numerous ways to enter Dresden Christmas Market. If you choose to arrive via Wilsdruffer Straße, you’ll pass beneath the iconic Christmas Arch, which symbolizes the mining history of the region. Not only is it large and intricately decorated, it is also adorned with strikingly large candles. You can climb to the top for a stunning view of the market. *After noticing this feature, I began seeing similar arches glowing in many windows throughout the night!

Additionally, the market boasts two enchanting carousels, which feel like a dream come to life. When purchasing your ride, you can pay at the booth using cash or credit cards, though it’s worth noting that cash is often preferred in Europe. Beyond the carousels, there are plenty of carnival-style rides available for children of all ages, making it a magical destination for families.

You will also find a wide array of local craftsmen offering unique gifts. These include handmade ornaments, children’s toys, home decor, and kitchen gadgets, among other treasures. Not only was everything crafted with remarkable quality, but the prices were also fair, adding to the charm of this extraordinary market experience.

You can’t miss the church. Literally. It’s massive. It’s stunning to see during the day, but at night with the twinkling Christmas trees out front and the lights all around, it really is a show stopper. There are organ concerts held here that you cannot miss! Make sure to check the official website for dates and times.

The stalls are the best part of the market. The items were all original, and different from the other markets. There are more home goods available such as kitchenware and locally made towels and blankets. All of the vendors here seemed a bit more friendly than the bigger city markets!

The rides for kids were great. Everything looked clean and well kept, and they ran for quite a while! The people running the rides were also friendly and happy to be there.