"For many years, the Leipzig Christmas Market has been the highlight of the end of the year on our city's tourist calendar. Interest has been consistently increasing for years - there were over two million visitors to our market last year alone," adds a pleased Dr. Walter Ebert, Head of Markets. "In 2018, more than 2000 coaches and special trains brought visitors to our market, there was barely any space left in hotels." On weekends in particular, he recommends that visitors leave the car at home if possible and use the excellent public transport connections.
Opening hours
The market is open every day from 10am to 9pm, and until 10pm on Fridays and Saturdays. Drinks can still be finished quietly after this time (no sales after closing). Exceptions to the opening hours are the first day 26 November 2019, 5pm until 9pm, and the last day 23 December 2019. The Christmas Market is only open until 8pm on this day. The other areas will close on 22 December 2019.
New magical forest, gourmet alley and signposts
"We are proud that the Leipzig Christmas Market is able to maintain such a high level with wonderful variety that covers the entire spectrum for young and old. And of course, there will be new features this year," said Dr. Ebert. "In addition to lots of small details, there are three things that will particularly catch the eye. Visitors can look forward to a new and magical light installation: in the 'Magical Forest' on Grimmaische Straße, ten large, luminous animal figures usually found in German woods are on display. A new signpost system makes it easier to navigate through the large city centre crowds, it will initially show visitors the way to seven distinctive locations. There are plans to expand on this. And for the first time at the market, there is a themed 'Gourmet Alley' area catering for the growing sector of high-quality food, regional and international delicacies and feasts. You can and should try and buy a wide variety of products."
Advent calendar
The successful online advent calendar for the Leipzig Christmas Market is once again presented in collaboration with media partner Radio Leipzig. There is also a competition associated with the advent calendar (free entry on the Radio Leipzig website - https://www.radioleipzig.de). Many cultural institutions, market traders and partners from the city have contributed daily prizes.
The tradition of the Leipzig Christmas Market dates back to 1458. Just as it did back then, the market harmoniously blends into the historic setting of Leipzig city centre. But the market keeps with the times of course: At www.leipzig.de/weihnachtsmarkt, there is a map with the location of all traders, making it easier to find a specific product type or favourite stall. This also works on mobile devices.