The Gengenbach Christmas Market (2023): A Winter Wonderland in the Heart of Germany
As the year draws to a close and the seasons transition from the vivid hues of autumn to the icy whites of winter, the small town of Gengenbach, tucked away in Germany's picturesque Black Forest, begins to sparkle with the spirit of the holidays. The Gengenbach Christmas Market, or "Gengenbach Weihnachtsmarkt" as it is known locally, transforms this medieval city into a winter wonderland, drawing visitors from across the globe.
This Christmas market is one of the top 5 best in the Black Forest, alongside the Ravenna Gorge, Freiburg, Baden-Baden and the Triberg Christmas market.
With its magical charm and festive atmosphere, the market is an iconic holiday event that takes place in the Upper Rhine Valley, making Gengenbach a must-visit Christmas destination.
(c) Der Kultur- und Tourismus GmbH Gengenbach
A Beautiful Christmas Market Location with a Unique Twist
What sets the Gengenbach Christmas Market apart from other Christmas markets in Germany is its breathtaking Advent Calendar House. Each year, the market takes place in front of the Old Town Hall (Rathaus), a beautiful, 18th-century building that is converted into the world's largest Advent calendar. From the end of November to just before Christmas, each window of the Rathaus is transformed into a 'day' on the Advent calendar, with a new window opening every evening to reveal a different festive scene. This makes the Gengenbach Christmas Market home to the biggest Advent Calendar in the world, adding a unique charm to the Christmas atmosphere.
At the heart of the Old Town, the Christmas Market fills the air with the sweet scent of mulled wine and gingerbread, the laughter of children, and the hum of cheerful conversations. Beautiful Christmas decorations adorn the wooden stalls, casting a warm glow on the cobblestone streets, while the towering Christmas tree, laden with twinkling lights and ornaments, stands proudly in the center of the square.
A Journey Through the Gengenbach Christmas Market
The Gengenbach Weihnachtsmarkt usually begins in late November and continues through December, offering plenty of time for visitors to immerse themselves in the beautiful Christmas atmosphere. As the market takes place in the heart of Gengenbach, the entire town becomes a part of the Christmas celebration, from the quaint shops in the Old Town to the stunning landscapes of the Upper Rhine Valley that surround it.
As you stroll through the market, you'll be tempted by an array of handmade crafts, unique gifts, and traditional German Christmas decorations. Local artisans showcase their talents through intricately carved wooden toys, handmade candles, and beautifully crafted ornaments, making the market a treasure trove for those seeking unique gifts or souvenirs.
No Christmas market in Germany, or indeed anywhere else, would be complete without a delectable array of food and drink. The Gengenbach Christmas Market is no exception. Visitors can warm their hands and hearts with a cup of traditional German mulled wine, known as Glühwein, or feast on a variety of delicious foods, from hearty sausages to sweet treats like Lebkuchen (gingerbread) and Stollen (a fruit-filled Christmas bread).
The Unique History of the Gengenbach Christmas Market
The Gengenbach Christmas Market is deeply rooted in the history of the town and the broader region. Gengenbach, located in the Upper Rhine Valley, has a rich history dating back to the Middle Ages. The market reflects this heritage, offering an atmosphere that is steeped in tradition yet vibrant and welcoming. The town's stunning half-timbered houses, medieval city walls, and cobblestone streets provide a perfect backdrop for the market, further enhancing its magical allure.
Roasted nuts are a delicious warm treat!
What to Eat at the Gengenbach Weihnachtsmarkt
There are many delicious traditional German foods to try at the Christmas market, plus those special items which only come around during the Christmas season. Here are our suggested dishes to try:
Glühwein (mulled wine)
Glühwein, or mulled wine, is a signature beverage European Christmas markets, offering a warm and comforting respite from the winter chill. The aromatic blend of red or white wine, spices, citrus, and sometimes a touch of brandy fills the air, enticing visitors towards the market stalls. Served in festive mugs, often unique to each market and year, sipping Glühwein while strolling through the beautifully decorated market is a quintessential part of the German Christmas market experience. The rich, warming drink not only warms your hands but also your spirits, making it an integral part of experience.
Flammkuchen
Flammkuchen, also known as tarte flambée, is a popular delicacy at Christmas Markets in the Black Forest region. Originating from the Alsace region neighboring the Upper Rhine Valley, this thin-crust pizza-like dish topped with crème fraîche, onions, and bacon, is baked in a wood-fired oven, resulting in a crispy, smoky delight. The savory, creamy flavors of Flammkuchen offer a delicious contrast to the sweet treats typically found at Christmas markets. Enjoying a freshly baked Flammkuchen, possibly with a glass of local wine or a mug of Glühwein, is a must-try.
Bratwurst
No visit to a German Christmas Market would be complete without savoring a classic German Bratwurst. These succulent sausages, grilled to perfection and served in a crusty roll, are a staple at German Christmas markets. The savory aroma of Bratwurst sizzling on the grill is a familiar and inviting scent that fills the festive air, drawing visitors to the food stalls. Whether you prefer it simply with mustard or complemented with sauerkraut, enjoying a hot Bratwurst while exploring the market is a quintessential part of the Gengenbach Christmas Market experience.
Lebkuchen
At European Christmas markets, the delightful scent of Lebkuchen, traditional German gingerbread, wafts through the chilly winter air, inviting visitors to indulge in this beloved holiday treat. Intricately decorated with icing and often packed in decorative tins or boxes, Lebkuchen makes for a perfect gift or a personal treat. The soft, spicy gingerbread, sometimes coated in dark chocolate or glazed with sugar, is a taste of German Christmas tradition. Whether enjoyed on-site with a warming cup of Glühwein or taken home as a souvenir, Lebkuchen from the Gengenbach Weihnachtsmarkt is a festive delight not to be missed.
Roasted nuts
This Weihnachtsmarkt delights visitors with the enticing aroma of roasted nuts, a traditional treat during the festive season. Stalls at the market offer a variety of nuts, including almonds, hazelnuts, and walnuts, beautifully roasted and often coated with a sweet glaze. The warm, crunchy nuts make for an ideal snack as you wander through the market, their flavors reflecting the essence of the holiday season. Packaged in small bags or decorative cones, these roasted nuts also make excellent gifts to take back home from your visit to the Gengenbach Weihnachtsmarkt.
Raclette
Raclette, a dish of melted cheese scraped over potatoes, pickles, and onions, is another mouth-watering delicacy. The sight of a large wheel of raclette cheese being slowly melted and then scraped onto the plate is a spectacle that draws many to the food stalls. The rich, creamy raclette cheese, paired with the warm, hearty ingredients, offers a comforting reprieve from the cold winter air. Enjoying a serving of raclette at the Gengenbach Christmas Market not only satisfies the palate but also provides a delightful culinary experience amidst the festive celebrations.
Curious of how Germans typically celebrate Christmas? Check out our article covering 10 Unique German Christmas Traditions!
Gengenbach Rathaus, Advent Calendar. (c) Der Kultur- und Tourismus GmbH Gengenbach
What to do at the Gengenbach Weihnachtsmarkt
This seasonal event offers a wealth of unique experiences and activities. Here are some of the highlights:
Advent Calendar House: The Gengenbach Christmas Market is famous for its Advent Calendar House, created in the Old Town Hall (Rathaus.) This is actually the largest Advent calendar in the world!
Each evening, a new 'window' or 'day' on the calendar is revealed, making it an event you wouldn't want to miss. This has been the staple of the Gengenbach Weihnachtsmarkt for the last 20 years.
We recommend being there for the window-opening ritual at 6PM every evening until the 24th window has been revealed.
In 2023, the Gengenbach Advent Rathaus window opening event begins on the 30th of November until the 23rd of December, at 6PM every day. The Advent Calendar House can be visited until the 6th of January.
Ride the Marry-Go-Round (Carousel): While you sip on some Glühwein or eat a bratwurst, let your children enjoy a festive carousel ride in the heart of the Christmas market.
Shopping: Browse the market stalls for unique handcrafted items, traditional German Christmas decorations, and gifts. Local artisans showcase their talents through a wide range of crafts including hand-carved wooden toys, homemade candles, and beautiful ornaments.
Culinary Delights: Indulge in traditional German Christmas foods and drinks. Warm up with a cup of Glühwein (mulled wine), savor hearty sausages, and enjoy sweet treats like Lebkuchen (gingerbread) and Stollen (fruit-filled Christmas bread).
Music and Entertainment: There is an entertainment program at the Rathaus every weekday at 5pm and every weekend at 3pm. Enjoy festive music from local choirs and bands, which often perform at the market. Depending on the schedule, you may also find street performers, storytelling sessions, and other entertainment.
Workshops: Some years, the market offers workshops where you can learn to make traditional German crafts or Christmas decorations. This can be a fun way to learn about local traditions and create your own souvenir.
Explore Gengenbach: Beyond the market itself, take the time to explore the charming town of Gengenbach. Visit the local museums, take a leisurely stroll through the narrow lanes, or hike in the nearby Black Forest for a refreshing encounter with nature.
Remember, the specific events and activities can vary from year to year, so it's always a good idea to check the official website or contact the local tourist office for the most current information. Regardless of the specific offerings each year, the Gengenbach Christmas Market promises a unique, festive, and thoroughly enjoyable experience.
Many shopping options. (c) Der Kultur- und Tourismus GmbH Gengenbach
How to Get to the Gengenbach Christmas Market
Gengenbach is conveniently located in the heart of Europe, making it accessible from several major cities. Here are a few ways you can reach it:
By Air
The nearest airports to Gengenbach are the EuroAirport Basel-Mulhouse-Freiburg (BSL) (about 90km away) and the Strasbourg International Airport (SXB) in France (about 60km away). Other nearby airports include Stuttgart Airport and Frankfurt Airport, though these are a bit further away.
Once you've landed, you can rent a car and drive to Gengenbach, or you can take a train. Both airports are well-serviced by public transport links. Use Deutsche Bahn to navigate your train journey there.
By Train
Gengenbach is part of the well-connected German rail network. If you're already in Germany, or in a neighboring country like France or Switzerland, the train can be an efficient and scenic way to reach Gengenbach.
From Frankfurt, you can take the ICE (InterCity Express) train to Offenburg, then switch to a regional train to Gengenbach. The total journey time is approximately 2 hours. Look into the Deutsche Bahn Rail & Fly to reduce overall transportation cost.
From Stuttgart, you can take a regional train directly to Gengenbach. The journey takes approximately 1.5 hours.
If you're traveling from Strasbourg in France, take a regional train to Offenburg, then switch to a train to Gengenbach. The total journey time is about 1 hour.
By Car
If you're driving, Gengenbach is conveniently located near the A5 Autobahn, which runs from Frankfurt to Basel. From the A5, take the exit for Offenburg, then follow the B33 towards Gengenbach. The town is then about 10km from the Offenburg exit.
If you’re in the Freiburg region, we recommend checking out our article which provides a detailed explanation of how to navigate to the Black Forest region of Germany.
(c) Der Kultur- und Tourismus GmbH Gengenbach
Getting to the Gengenbach Christmas Market
Once you're in Gengenbach, the Christmas Market is easy to find. It takes place in front of the Old Town Hall in the city center. Most parts of the Old Town are pedestrianized, and Gengenbach is small enough that you can easily walk from one end of the town to the other.
If you're driving, you can park your car in one of the town's public parking lots (Parkhaus Stadthalle or P+R Bahnhof are the closest to the Old Town), then walk to the Christmas Market.
So whether you're coming from near or far, by plane, train, or automobile, reaching the Gengenbach Christmas Market is part of the adventure. The journey through the scenic Black Forest region is a beautiful experience in itself, setting the stage for the magical Christmas atmosphere that awaits in Gengenbach.
When to Visit the Gengenbach Christmas Market
The Gengenbach Christmas Market, like many German Christmas markets, traditionally begins in late November and runs until just before Christmas, usually closing on December 23rd or 24th. The precise dates may vary slightly each year, so it's always a good idea to check the official website or contact the local tourist office for the most accurate information.
2023 Dates & Times:
30th of November until the 23rd of December
Monday – Friday: 2PM – 8PM
Saturday & Sunday: 12PM – 8PM
One of the highlights of the Gengenbach Christmas Market is the daily window-opening ceremony at the Advent Calendar House, which typically takes place in the early evening. If you want to experience this unique tradition, plan your visit to coincide with the ceremony.
The Advent Calendar House (Rathaus) window opening runs from the 30th of November until the 23rd of December at 6PM every day.
Visiting the market on a weekday can be a bit quieter and less crowded than visiting on a weekend. However, the festive atmosphere is present every day, and there's always plenty to see and do.
If you can, try to allow for at least a couple of days to fully explore the market and the surrounding town. Gengenbach and the broader Black Forest region are beautiful at this time of year, with plenty of other attractions and activities to enjoy beyond the Christmas Market itself.
In terms of weather, be prepared for cold winter temperatures and potentially snow or rain. Dress warmly, and consider bringing an umbrella or waterproof clothing just in case. Despite the cold, the warm glow of the market, the scent of mulled wine and gingerbread, and the festive cheer make a visit to the Gengenbach Christmas Market a magical experience.
Wanting to visit Gengenbach Germany outside of the Christmas season? Check out what to do here!
(c) Der Kultur- und Tourismus GmbH Gengenbach
Where to Stay at the Gengenbach Christmas Market
Accommodation options in Gengenbach range from quaint bed and breakfasts in the Old Town to more modern hotels. Be sure to book early, as the town can get busy during the Christmas season. While the market itself is walkable, comfortable shoes are recommended as you'll likely spend hours exploring all the stalls, and don't forget to dress warmly!
Here are a few options to consider when planning your visit:
Die Reichsstadt Hotel & Restaurant: This stylish, modern hotel is located in the heart of Gengenbach's old town, offering easy access to the Christmas Market. It also features a gourmet restaurant and a wellness area.
Hotel Sonne: Located in the city center, this family-run hotel offers comfortable rooms and a hearty breakfast to start your day. It's just a short walk to the Christmas Market.
Holiday Rentals: You can also consider renting a holiday apartment or house in Gengenbach. Websites like Airbnb and Booking.com offer a range of options, from quaint cottages to modern apartments.
Keep in mind that the Christmas Market is a popular event, so accommodations can book up quickly. It's a good idea to make your reservations as far in advance as possible.
Finally, Gengenbach is well-connected by train, so staying in a nearby city like Offenburg, Freiburg, or Baden Baden could also be an option. This could provide a wider range of accommodation options and allow you to explore more of the region during your visit. However, you would need to factor in the travel time to and from the market.
What to do in Gengenbach Besides the Christmas Market
Apart from the enchanting Christmas Market, Gengenbach has plenty to offer visitors at any time of the year. Here are three options:
Explore the Old Town: Gengenbach's picturesque Old Town, with its half-timbered houses, cobblestone streets, and charming squares, is a delight to explore. Visit the medieval city gates, admire the beautiful fountains, and don't miss the stunning Stadtkirche St. Marien, a church that combines Gothic and Baroque architectural styles.
Visit the Museums: Gengenbach is home to several interesting museums. The Flößerei- und Verkehrsmuseum explores the history of the town's transport and timber floating industries. The Narrenmuseum Niggelturm is dedicated to the region's traditional carnival celebrations, displaying a range of colorful costumes and masks.
Enjoy the Great Outdoors: Gengenbach is located on the edge of the Black Forest, offering ample opportunities for outdoor activities. There are numerous hiking and biking trails in the surrounding area, suitable for all levels of fitness. The Kinzig Valley bike route, in particular, offers a scenic and leisurely ride through the heart of the Black Forest.
Each of these options provides a different perspective on Gengenbach, revealing different facets of this charming German town. Whether you're drawn to history and architecture, cultural traditions, or the beauty of nature, you'll find plenty to enjoy in Gengenbach.
(c) Der Kultur- und Tourismus GmbH Gengenbach
Tips for your Trip to the Gengenbach Christmas Market
Here are some tips to help you make the most of your visit to the Christmas Market:
Plan Ahead: The Gengenbach Christmas Market is a popular event. Hotels can fill up quickly, so it's a good idea to book your accommodation well in advance. Also, check the market's official website or contact the local tourist office for the most accurate and up-to-date information about dates, times, and special events.
Dress Warmly: Remember, this is an outdoor event in winter. Dress in layers and wear warm, comfortable footwear. Don't forget your gloves and a hat!
Arrive Early: If you want to avoid the biggest crowds, try to arrive early in the day. The market can get quite busy, especially on weekends and in the evenings when the Advent Calendar House window opening ceremony takes place.
Try the Local Specialties: Don't miss the chance to try traditional German Christmas foods and drinks. From Bratwurst and Flammkuchen to Glühwein and Lebkuchen, the market offers a wide range of delicious culinary treats.
Bring Cash: While some stalls might accept cards, many operate on a cash-only basis. There are ATMs in Gengenbach, but it's a good idea to have some cash on hand when you arrive at the market.
Explore the Town: The Christmas Market is a highlight, but be sure to take some time to explore the rest of Gengenbach as well. The town's charming Old Town, museums, and surrounding nature offer plenty to see and do.
Respect the Environment: The market organizers and the town of Gengenbach make great efforts to make the event as sustainable as possible. Be mindful of your waste, recycle where possible, and consider using public transportation to get to and from the market.
Remember, this event is about more than just shopping. It's a chance to experience local traditions, soak up the festive atmosphere, and make lasting memories. Enjoy your visit!
Conclusion
From the twinkling lights to the festive cheer, from the biggest Advent Calendar in the world to the beautiful Christmas decorations, the Gengenbach Christmas Market offers a unique and unforgettable Christmas experience. Nestled in the heart of the Black Forest, in the charming town of Gengenbach, this beautiful Christmas Market is a testament to the joy, warmth, and unity that the holiday season brings.
With its rich history, stunning location, and magical atmosphere, the Gengenbach Christmas Market is a must-visit destination for anyone looking to experience a traditional German Christmas. Whether you visit for the mulled wine, the unique gifts, the Advent Calendar House, or simply the beautiful Christmas atmosphere, you're sure to leave with a heart full of festive cheer and memories that will last a lifetime.
So, as the year draws to a close and the season of advent begins, consider taking a trip to the Gengenbach Weihnachtsmarkt. Come and immerse yourself in the beautiful Christmas atmosphere, celebrate the season in one of the most enchanting Christmas markets in the world, and take a piece of Gengenbach's Christmas magic home with you.
Once you’ve enjoyed your time here, check out the other top Black Forest Christmas markets that we recommend! Here are some of the best: Ravenna Gorge, Freiburg, Baden-Baden and the Triberg Christmas market.
