10 Unforgettable Events in Germany in December 2023: "The Most Wonderful Time" is approaching again, bringing endless cups of mulled wine, slices of stollen, and all the other Christmas delights that Germans have in their impressive festive arsenal.
Related topic: What will change in Germany in December 2023
10 unforgettable events in Germany in December 2023
Cologne Christmas Circus
December 1–31
For the eighth year, the world-class Christmas circus in Cologne presents a dazzling and comedic show of acrobatics and ballet that the whole family can enjoy.
Dresden Stollen Festival
December 9
The Dresden Stollen Festival is a celebration for lovers of the ubiquitous German Christmas fruitcake, covered with icing or marzipan—stollen.
This enduring German Christmas treat, rooted in the Middle Ages, is often coated with marzipan or icing and seasoned with spices. The capital of Saxony, the birthplace of fruitcake, dedicates an entire day to its celebration. On this day, you can visit the city's Christmas market, which, like stollen, has a long history.
Nuremberg Christmas Market
December 1–24
With almost 3,000 markets throughout the country, it's hard to miss this widespread German tradition no matter where you are.
However, for newcomers or those wanting to impress foreign friends and truly immerse themselves in the Christmas spirit, the globally renowned Bavarian Christmas market in Nuremberg is a perennial attraction. Founded in 1628, the market boasts authenticity and regional charm.
Rothenburg ob der Tauber Christmas Market
December 1–24
If you've already experienced this festival and adorned yourself with shiny Christmas decorations, both in Bavaria and beyond, there are plenty of other winter wonderland-style Christmas markets.
One particularly charming market transports you to the medieval era—Rothenburg ob der Tauber Christmas Market, located in a fairytale town with cobblestone streets and half-timbered houses.
Krampuslauf in Munich
December 10
While December 6 marks the celebration of St. Nicholas Day across Germany, many cities have a dedicated day for the ominous Krampus.
During Krampuslauf, or "Krampus Run," residents dress up in carefully crafted grotesque costumes and parade through the streets, creating a captivating spectacle.
The most famous Krampuslauf takes place at the Munich Christmas market on Marienplatz.
Baroque Evening at Charlottenburg Palace
December 10 and 17
Throughout December, Munich hosts numerous Advent concerts.
If you appreciate the harpsichord and would like to hear it in a regal setting, this special Baroque evening might be to your liking.
The Berlin Residence Ensemble, led by Alexandra Rossmann, will perform a series of charming works, including Bach's Concerto for Harpsichord and Orchestra in A Major, BWV 1055, and arias from Handel's "Messiah," HWV 56.
The Marriage of Figaro in Munich
December 27–January 4
Opera enthusiasts in Munich will be pleased to know that the famous rococo-style Cuvilliés Theatre will host a magnificent performance of Mozart's dramatic and iconic opera.
Swan Lake in Dresden
December 28
Ballet enthusiasts, beware: Tchaikovsky's enchanting tale of forbidden love will be presented by the Prague Festival Ballet at Dresden's Kulturpalast. A slightly ethereal entertainment for the whole family.
New Year's Eve at the Brandenburg Gate
New Year's Eve in Berlin can be quite lively. If you enjoy fireworks, crowds, food stalls, and booming rhythms, you shouldn't miss one of the most popular New Year's parties at Pariser Platz.
New Year's Eve with the Hamburg Philharmonic Orchestra
A more tranquil way to celebrate the beginning of the new year is to enjoy the sounds of the Hamburg Philharmonic Orchestra. Revel in the music of Mozart, Elgar, Puccini, and many others in one of Europe's most famous concert halls.
Related topics:
- In relation to the changes expected in Germany in December 2023, a question might be: "What modifications will be observed in the celebration of December festivities in Germany, such as the Cologne Christmas Circus and the Dresden Stollen Festival?"
- For someone planning to visit Germany in December 2023, relevant information could include: "What are some of the unforgettable events to look forward to in Germany during December 2023, including the Cologne Christmas Circus and the Dresden Stollen Festival?"
