What to Buy at a German Christmas Market

I love the Christmas market season the most! There’s so much to see and do, it’s truly amazing.

One of the questions I get asked a lot is what to buy at German Christmas markets?

There are souvenirs you’ll want to get! This guide will help you sort through the best things to buy at German Christmas markets. Whether you’re on a budget or want to splurge on something truly magical! Save space in your suitcase for all of these Christmas goodies. In my opinion, this is the best place to shop.

Stepping into a German Christmas market is like stepping into a winter wonderland. The air is filled with the scent of roasted chestnuts and mulled wine, and the atmosphere is filled with holiday cheer. One of the most appealing aspects of visiting these markets is the opportunity to explore the unique handmade treasures on sale. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll show you the essentials you’ll find at German Christmas markets, from mulled wine mugs to ornaments, paper stars to sheepskin and more.

Mulledwein mug: Souvenirs that fit your budget

The German Christmas market experience begins with a steaming cup of Glühwein, the popular mulled wine infused with spice and warmth. What makes this treat even more special is that it comes with a collectible Glühwein mug. These mugs often have unique designs, depicting the emblem or theme of the particular market you’re visiting. Since the design changes every year, this mug is also a popular souvenir. Remember the cozy times spent drinking hot mulled wine in the market center and take home a mug of mulled wine.

Mugs often display the annual market date. What a wonderful collection! Plus, it’s perfect for any budget.

Paper stars: Luminous all year round

One of the most attractive and versatile items you can buy at German Christmas markets are paper star lanterns. These delicate stars are made from colorful translucent paper and decorated with intricate cutout designs. Traditionally used as holiday decorations, they give off a warm, cozy glow when lit from within. But many people love them so much that they display them all year round to add a little whimsy and magic to their homes. The star shape makes it easy to fold flat, making it the perfect souvenir or gift.

I especially like it because it’s reasonably priced and easy to put in a suitcase.

Ornaments: decorate the hall with German charm

German Christmas ornaments are famous for their craftsmanship and attention to detail. At the market, you’ll find an array of beautifully handcrafted ornaments, from delicate glass baubles to intricately carved wooden figurines. These ornaments often depict festive scenes, traditional characters such as nutcrackers and angels, and Christmas symbols such as snowflakes and gingerbread cookies. Decorating your tree with these treasures will infuse your home with the spirit of German Christmas.

candle holder: light up the night

The soft, flickering light of candles is essential to the holiday atmosphere of German Christmas markets. To recreate this cozy atmosphere at home, consider purchasing handmade candle holders or lanterns at the market. These candle holders come in a variety of materials, including wood, metal, and porcelain, and feature festive designs such as winter scenes and holiday motifs. Place these holders on your dining table or windowsill to infuse your space with a warm, inviting glow.

Sheepskin: Add comfort to your home

As temperatures drop during the winter months, staying warm and comfortable becomes a top priority. Stalls selling sheepskin products, from rugs to pram linings, shoes and gloves, are common at German Christmas markets. These high-quality sheepskin items bring warmth as well as rustic elegance to your home and wardrobe. Sheepskin’s luxurious texture and natural insulation properties make it popular with travelers looking for both practicality and luxury.

handmade wooden treasures

A visit to a German Christmas market would not be complete without admiring the exquisite handmade wooden products on display. Many of these treasures are made by skilled craftsmen using traditional woodworking techniques that have been passed down through generations. From intricately carved nativity scenes to charming wooden ornaments, nutcrackers, and toys, the craftsmanship behind these pieces is truly awe-inspiring.

One of the iconic symbols of German Christmas markets is the wooden Christmas pyramid (Weinachtspiramide). These ornate multi-tiered structures contain intricate wooden figurines that rotate when lit by candles, creating an enchanting sight. Owning one of these pyramids allows you to bring some of the magic of this holiday into your own home.

Additionally, consider purchasing a wooden candle arch (Schwibbogen) depicting traditional German life scenes and Christmas traditions. These candle arches are usually made of beautifully stained wood and add a warm, rustic charm to your holiday decor.

Whether you choose handmade wooden nativity sets, whimsical nutcrackers or timeless wooden ornaments, these pieces embody the spirit of craftsmanship and artistry that defines German Christmas markets. Each wooden treasure tells a story and serves as a reminder of the lasting traditions of the festive season.

Flavored liqueurs: Taste the tradition

Flavored alcoholic beverages are also a fun discovery at German Christmas markets. These drinks are often made from a base of distilled spirits, such as schnapps or rum, with various flavors added. One of the popular menu items is the Feuersangen Bowl. Flaming the rum over a sugar loaf and dripping it into a glass of mulled wine creates a great show and a deliciously aromatic drink. Fruit-infused liqueurs, herbal schnapps and spiced brandies are also available, perfect for warming up on a chilly night.

Gloves, hats and scarves: stay stylish and comfortable

Winters in Germany can be very cold, and Christmas markets are no exception. Explore commercially available gloves, hats, and scarves to stay warm and stylish. These accessories often display traditional German craftsmanship, using cozy materials such as wool and fleece. Look for unique designs and patterns that reflect the festive spirit of the season. Whether it’s hand-knitted mittens or fluffy pom-pom hats, these pieces will add flair to your winter wardrobe while still providing a snug fit.

Kathe Wolfert

Kathe Wohlfaught is a famous German company specializing in all things Christmas. The main store is in Rothenburg ob der Tauber, but during the holiday season you can find charming pop-up shops at many Christmas markets in Germany, including big cities like Munich, Nuremberg and Cologne.

Walking into a Kathe Wohlfahrt store is like stepping into a Christmas wonderland. The store is filled with holiday decorations, ornaments, and collectibles, carefully selected to capture the magic of the season. Here you’ll find a variety of handmade wooden products, from nutcrackers to pyramids, as well as elaborate glass ornaments and whimsical figurines.

One of Kathe Wohlfahrt’s distinguishing features is its rotating Christmas tree, which stretches up to two stories high. The sight is something to behold. It’s the perfect place to soak up the magic of the holidays and get unique, high-quality Christmas gifts and decorations.

Whether you’re looking for a special addition to your ornament collection, a unique holiday gift, or just want to soak up the festive atmosphere, a visit to Kathe Wohlfahrt during your German Christmas market adventure is essential. Their treasures will definitely add a touch of authentic German holiday magic to your celebration.

Take a look inside this magical store in Heidelberg.

Each market has different things to buy, so explore as many markets as possible.

A visit to a German Christmas market is more than just a shopping trip. It’s an immersive experience at the heart of holiday traditions and festive spirit. The items you take home from these markets are more than just souvenirs. They are tangible memories of magical moments spent drinking mulled wine, strolling through the glittering food stalls, and feeling the warmth of the season. That means each item captures the essence of German Christmas markets, whether it’s mulled wine mugs, ornaments, paper stars, sheepskins, candle holders, flavored liqueurs or cozy winter accessories. Ready to incorporate into your home and life. Along with the charm of the season. Happy shopping!