Holiday markets in Germany and Austria

Seasonal holiday markets and light displays are scheduled to open across various regions in Germany and Austria.

In Germany, festivities are planned for Bavaria and the Lake Constance region. Munich will host events including the Winterworld at Motorworld München, the Munich Airport Christmas and Winter Market, and a Christmas village at the Munich Residenz. Other regional highlights include the Schloss Kronburg market in Allgäu and the Christmas Garden on Mainau Island. In Franconia, celebrations include the Nuremberg Christkindlesmarkt, the Schloss Dürrenmungenau water castle market, the Gut Wolfgangshof market, and the Spalt Christmas market. Other regional highlights include the fortress-themed market in Kronach, the historical Pfalz area in Forchheim, and seasonal events in Pottenstein featuring Krampus runs.

In Upper Austria, markets are organized in Linz, featuring the traditional Christkindlmarkt at the Hauptplatz, a family-oriented market in the Volksgarten, and cultural experiences at the Lentos, Schlossmuseum, and Ars Electronica Center. A new snack pass is also being offered to visitors in Linz. Wels, named the first German-speaking ‘European City of Christmas 2026’, will feature three Alpine markets, a light path, and a special installation in the Ledererturm from November 13 to December 24. Steyr will host the ‘Schmiedeweihnacht’, the Steyrer Kripperl puppet theater, and the first Austrian Christmas Museum.

Additional regional highlights include scenic lakeside markets near Wolfgangsee, a special train service to the Schafberg, the ‘Kripperlroas’ in Ebensee, and ‘Bergweihnacht’ in Gosau. Light forests are planned for the Danube region, while Hochburg-Ach will host a traditional crafts market from December 11 to 13.