Christmas Markets Series

Everything You Need to Know About Leipzig Christmas Market

**2024 Edition**

Enjoying hot cocoa at Leipzig Christmas Market

Where

Marktplatz Leipzig

Markt 11-12, 04109 Leipzig, Germany

Date

November 26 – December 23, 2024

Hours

Sunday – Thursday: 10:00 am – 9:00 pm 

Friday – Saturday: 10:00 am – 10:00 pm

Pro Tip

Visit Leipzig Christmas Market on a weekday early evening to avoid the biggest crowds, enjoy the twinkling lights, and snag easier parking!

book your stay early

Check out hotels in the area to start planning your holiday adventure

All About Leipzig Christmas Market

Dating back to 1458 and hosting around 300 twinkling stalls, the Leipzig Christmas Market is not only one of the oldest but also one of the most popular and largest Christmas markets in Germany. 

It’s big – spanning over a few streets – which are also lined with shops and dining options. Everything was highly decorated for the season, with the twinkling Christmas trees and carousels being the stars of the show. There are plenty of food and drink options and local vendors that provide authentic and traditional products.

The market captures the essence of traditional German Christmas celebrations, offering a magical blend of history, culture, and festive cheer

Souvenir mug from Leipzig Christmas Market

Must-Try Eats at Leipzig Christmas Market

Here we tried a Handbrot – ham (or bacon) stuffed cheesy bread and topped with sour cream. It was delicious! I thought the sour cream on top would be too much, but the tangy-ness of it cut through the richness of the filling. 

There are plenty of drink stands here selling all of the usual suspects – gluhwein, hot chocolates – with a selection of shots you can add in, beer, and Kirsch Punsch – which was strong and delicious! *If you are here with children, be sure to order them a Kinder Punsch! A non-alcoholic mulled punch.

You have to try the waffles here. A thin and crispy waffle stuffed with vanilla cream. While looking at the huge bowl of cream, it appeared thick, almost like frosting. But when we bit into it, it was so light and airy and tasted like marshmallows without being too sweet.

Bread stuffed with cheese and bacon at Leipzig Christmas Market
Waffle stuffed with vanilla cream at Leipzig Christmas Market

What to See at Leipzig Christmas Market

Leipzig Christmas Market is packed with festive charm and plenty of activities to explore, offering something special at every turn! The market offers a historic carousel, ferris wheel,  rides for children, and a giant Advent calendar. Don’t forget to check their site for schedules of live music performances, concerts, and exhibitions.

  • Fairy Tale Forest: A section of the market where there are classic fairytale exhibits set up. Very cool to look at and kept our daughter entertained. Good place for photo ops.
  • Nativity Scene: Cute nativity scene equipped with real sheep!
  • Ore Mountains Christmas Pyramid: Located in St. Nicholas Church Square, this 26 foot tall pyramid is a sight to see.
  • Finnish Christmas Village: A highlight of the market featuring traditional Finnish specialities. Look out for smoked salmon, reindeer meat and skins, pastries, and arts and crafts.
  • South Tyrolean Village: This is where most of the families hang out. You can listen to Alpine music while eating classic Tyrolean dishes.

In the Fairy Tale Forest, visitors can interact with whimsical displays that bring classic tales like Hansel and Gretel to life. Meanwhile, the Finnish Christmas Village offers not only unique treats but also handcrafted gifts and a cozy Nordic vibe.

Fairytale land at Leipzig Christmas Market

Where to Park for Leipzig Christmas Market

Since the market is located in the city center, parking can be limited. There are parking garages in the area, but will fill up fairly quickly. Q-Park Augustusplatz is the closest one. 

You can look for street parking, but keep an eye out for metered, permit only, or timed parking signs. 

You can also take the tram or the bus, with the closest stop being Thomas Church (Thomaskirche).

Street parking in Leipzig, Germany

Best Places to Stay in Leipzig

The streets of Leipzig, Germany

Is Leipzig Christmas Market Worth Visiting?

Yes! The market was well set up, easy to walk, and very charming. The lights, music, and smells left an impact on us. All of the vendors were selling unique items. Holiday home decor, hand crafted ornaments, kitchen accessories, and winter wear. There was plenty to look at, and enough rides and attractions to keep our 4 year old busy. It was very busy, so be prepared to dodge hot drinks!

Have you visited the Leipzig Christmas Market? Share your favorite part in the comments below! Be sure to check out our article about Our Experience at Leipzig Christmas Market for even more festive insights.

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