Starting November 1st, this festive market is one of the earliest holiday markets I know of near my region in Germany (Rheinland-Pfalz). So, if you're one of those people who can't wait to get started the moment after October 31st, then add this to your list of things to do!
You can't miss where the market is located. Head towards the Schlossplatz and look for this giant Ferris wheel peeking over the palace!
Are you collecting holiday mugs? Get your first one of the year here!
Most of the stands are food and drink related. Prices aren't terrible, but this is the first time I've had to pay a pfand for food served on real ceramic plates! So just be aware that there may be a pfand for your food AND your drinks.
This is some of the best food I've had at a market to date. Going from left to right we have: fried kartoffelpuffer (like reibekuchen, made from potatoes) with a jogurt dip, käsespätzle (sort of cheese dumpling noodle), and then a chilicheese bratwurst mit brot (spicy and oh so good).
I wouldn't say this market is necessarily catered to children. There was a small carousel, but nothing like I'd seen at other markets.
Adults and children alike can skate at the roller rink! We unfortunately didn't have time during our visit, but I wish I could have. I actually do enjoy skating quite a bit. It's easier for me to pick back up than riding a bike (lol).
Attention: Originally, I had said this was ice skating because I had never seen a roller-skating rink like this before, but it is ROLLER SKATING! I just assumed it was ice skating and never looked at their feet. That gave me a good laugh.
Expect large crowds on the weekends and check the weather! It was raining the entire time we were there (not hard, thank God).
If you are in the Rheinland-Pfalz area, I'd also like to mention that the Ludwigshafener Weihnachtsmarkt opened two days ago, on November 8th. So now you have at least two choices!
Enjoy the quick video I made above!
Additional Information:
Stuttgart's Wintertraum Website:
Schlossplatz Google Link:
Ludwigshafen Weihnachtsmarkt Website:
Tips & Tricks for Christmas Markets:
Don't forget most markets in Germany are still cash only! Be sure to bring euros!
Is it free to get in? Yes! Most Christmas Markets are free to enter as they are generally set up in an open area in the city. You walk on up and enjoy! However, some specialized markets do require tickets, so it's always good to double-check on the website!
What is a pfand? A pfand is the extra amount charged when you receive a glass from one of the drink vendors. So, if the drink costs 5€ and the pfand is 2€, your drink will be 7€. Then when you return your mug/glass (to the same stall), you will receive your pfand back IF you choose to return your mug.
Is it ok to take the Christmas mugs we are given? This is a huge debate that goes back and forth sometimes. Overall, I would say yes, taking them at most larger markets is okay. In fact, many mugs are made specifically for you to take them! They will have the current year or a unique design made because they know people like to collect them. However, you want to be careful in some smaller markets. Smaller local stands may only have a limited number of mugs; taking the mug would dwindle their supply. If you are unsure, please ask!
What do the mugs look like? They come in all sorts of shapes and colors! Head to my Facebook post and check out some of my favorites from the past couple of years: https://www.facebook.com/Allie.in.Wanderland/posts/pfbid0QQQVWfwkvjwbCoy9Ei8v6aWxUKm3z2jCvNsBKDrw6ckJKMfToc4QBZbT3KY6CorDl.
Pro Tip: If you are traveling with your mugs, bring some bubble wrap or cushioning to wrap them in for the journey. You can also bring a paper towel or two and a bag for placing them in your backpack or purse. You won't usually have anywhere to wash them when you are done.
Dress Warm! If it's cold enough, I put toe warmers in my boots, grab my rechargeable electric muff (hand warmer), and don clothes such as a winter hat, my Sherpa line leggings, thermals, fleece-lined tights, and a warm jacket/sweater. I've even seen heated jackets and pants you can buy now!
Show up after 2:00 pm no matter what time the market opens. Many vendors/food stalls often won't open until later in the afternoon. So, if you want the whole experience, I would show up a little later. Plus, if you aim for around 3:00 pm, you can stay a little and see the market in the light of day and then experience the magic later at night. This way, you can get the whole experience and leave if things get too crowded!
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