Wernigerode Kicks off the Holiday Spirit Early
Embrace the joy of the season a tad early as Wernigerode in the Harz region of Saxony-Anhalt heralds the arrival of the holiday market season. Lined up just weeks before the first Advent, this charming town promises a heartwarming pre-Christmas atmosphere between the historic market square, Breiter Straße, and Nicolaiplatz until December 22.
Over 60 merchants, exhibitors, and eateries will do their part in setting the festive mood, boasting offerings that span from handcrafted goods, cultural experiences, scrumptious delicacies, live performances, and, of course, an array of festive mulled wine specialties. The entire scene will be awash in the warm glow of twinkling Christmas lights.
Given that November 26th is the Sunday of the Dead, the market will have an unplanned break on that date.
Taking a cue from this year's festivities, Wernigerode will introduce an alluring gingerbread forest for the first time. The sweet sanctuary will be nestled on Nicolaiplatz, filling the air with the aroma of sugar and spice. The flower clock's winter market will further extend its stay throughout the holiday season, all the way until January 7, 2024. Visitors can anticipate a daily dose of live music to set the tone for their festive stopover.
If you fancy exploring more of Wernigerode's enchanting old town, you'll discover a plethora of hidden courtyards teeming with their own unique Christmas markets. The castle will also keep the cheer alive with special tours and storytelling sessions guaranteed to draw you in, extending your holiday merrymaking well into the New Year.
While our quest for holiday inspiration began in Wernigerode, let's not forget to cast an eye towards Regensburg's captivating Christmas market at Thurn und Taxis Palace. The delightful aroma of traditional meals, German beer, and a fairytale atmosphere will leave you yearning for another taste of the festive season. Bremen is another city renowned for its Christmas celebrations, offering a historical backdrop complete with a rich maritime heritage.
As you embark on your holiday market adventure, don't forget to explore Wernigerode's verdant landscapes shaped by the Harz National Park with its dense forests, mountain vistas, and quaint valleys. Your experience will be enhanced further by the town's timber-framed structures and charming medieval castles that transport you straight into a fairy-tale tale.
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