Future dates
- 2027Nov 19 – Dec 24, 2027— follows published festival formula; official confirmation typically arrives later
Quick answer
Munich Christkindlmarkt is a seasonal event in Munich, Bavaria. It runs from Nov 20 – Dec 24, 2026, with a one-day closure on Nov 22 for Totensonntag. Munich's oldest Christmas market — Glühwein under the Rathaus tower, with roots dating to the 17th century.
Munich's oldest Christmas market — Glühwein under the Rathaus tower, with roots dating to the 17th century.
Small by Nuremberg standards but magical — the Gothic Neues Rathaus as backdrop, a towering tree donated annually by a different Bavarian or Alpine municipality (a tradition since 1977; height and origin vary by year — 2025's came from Ellmau, Tyrol, at roughly 25 meters), and tower music every evening. Don't miss the Kripperlmarkt (nativity market) nearby.
History
Munich Christkindlmarkt's roots are said to reach back to St. Nicholas markets (Nikolaidult) as early as the 14th century, though its first documented mention comes from the city's annals in 1642 — making it one of Germany's oldest Christmas markets.
Eat & Drink Nearby
- Local specialty
- Glühwein (mulled wine) under the Neues Rathaus tower, plus Lebkuchen, roasted almonds, and Bratwurst from the market stalls.
- Pair it with
- The nearby Kripperlmarkt for nativity crafts, then a Maß at a Viktualienmarkt-adjacent beer garden if you want beer after the wine.
- Itinerary fit
- Evening visit for tower music and lights — start with Glühwein at Marienplatz, wander to the Kripperlmarkt, finish with a sit-down meal in the Altstadt.
Frequently asked questions
- When is Munich Christkindlmarkt in 2026?
- Munich Christkindlmarkt in 2026 runs from Nov 20 – Dec 24, 2026. It takes place at Marienplatz.
- Is Munich Christkindlmarkt free to attend?
- Entry to Munich Christkindlmarkt is free.
- What is the history of Munich Christkindlmarkt?
- Munich Christkindlmarkt's roots are said to reach back to St. Nicholas markets in the 14th century, but its first documented mention comes from the city's annals in 1642 — making it one of Germany's oldest Christmas markets.
- Where is Munich Christkindlmarkt located?
- Munich Christkindlmarkt takes place at Marienplatz in Munich, Oberbayern, Bavaria, Germany.
- Is Munich Christkindlmarkt open every day?
- Munich Christkindlmarkt runs daily from Nov 20 through Dec 24, 2026, except for one closure day: Sunday, Nov 22 (Totensonntag), when the market is closed.
More in Munich
Other festivals and markets in Munich — or see the full Munich guide.
- Free entry