Munich, Bavaria, Germany – As Christmas 2025 approaches, the city of Munich is enveloped in a festive glow, offering a truly magical experience for residents and visitors alike. From sparkling Christmas trees to enchanting light installations, the Bavarian capital has embraced the holiday spirit with a unique charm.
Marienplatz: The Heart of Christmas Festivities
The iconic Marienplatz, home to the traditional Christkindlmarkt, stands as the epicenter of Munich’s Christmas celebrations. A towering 25-meter-high fir tree, with a diameter of 60 centimeters and sourced from Ellmau in Tyrol, serves as the market’s dazzling centerpiece. Adorned with over 3,000 lights, this magnificent tree is ceremoniously illuminated each year, a moment marked by a collective countdown and the ringing of the Old Peter’s bells. This tradition, deeply rooted in Munich’s history, makes the Marienplatz Christmas tree one of the most beautiful in the city.
Adding to the festive ambiance, the Christkindlmarkt on Marienplatz, which runs from November 24 to December 24, 2025, is a highlight. The city council has decided to extend the market by two days from 2026, allowing visitors to enjoy the festive offerings for a longer period. This extension will see the market starting on the Friday before Totensonntag, with a break on the silent holiday. [tz.de](https://www.tz.de/muenchen/stadt/fest-um-zwei-tage-christkindlmarkt-in-muenchen-stadt-verlaengert-93985437.html)
Gärtnerplatztheater: A Luminous Landmark
Almost as renowned as the Marienplatz tree is the Christmas tree at Gärtnerplatztheater. Positioned prominently in front of the theater, it casts a warm glow over the square, becoming a focal point of the rondel. This picturesque setting, complemented by the theater’s facade and surrounding buildings, creates a beloved festive scene for many Munich residents during Advent.
Enchanting City Strolls: Promenadenplatz and Hofstatt
For those seeking to immerse themselves in the festive atmosphere, a stroll through Munich’s illuminated streets is a must. The Promenadenplatz is particularly captivating, with light spheres of various sizes transforming the area into a luminous forest after dusk. These seemingly floating orbs create a serene and festive environment. Meanwhile, the Hofstatt’s inner courtyard is adorned with glowing golden reindeer, adding another touch of magic to the city’s festive decor.
A Glimpse into the Past: Traditional Window Displays
A cherished Munich Christmas tradition, especially for those who grew up in the city, is the festive window display at Galeria Kaufhof on Marienplatz. For decades, this miniature winter wonderland, featuring Steiff figures, has been an integral part of the Advent season. Children eagerly press their noses against the glass, while adults pause to admire the nostalgic scene, evoking fond childhood memories.
Other Notable Christmas Markets and Attractions
Munich boasts a plethora of other Christmas markets and attractions, each offering a unique experience:
- Viktualienmarkt: Known for its fresh produce, the market takes on a wintery charm with festive lighting and seasonal treats. The ‘Alpenwahn’ area offers a lively atmosphere with pop and rock classics. [sueddeutsche.de](https://www.sueddeutsche.de/muenchen/muenchen-weihnachtsmaerkte-christkindlmaerkte-oeffnungszeiten-2025-1.5698518)
- Christmas Village in the Residenz: Located in the largest courtyard of the Munich City Palace, this village offers a cozy atmosphere with artisan stalls and a magical fairytale forest. [sueddeutsche.de](https://www.sueddeutsche.de/muenchen/muenchen-weihnachtsmaerkte-christkindlmaerkte-oeffnungszeiten-2025-1.5698518)
- Medieval Christmas Market at Wittelsbacherplatz: This market transports visitors back to the 14th century, with vendors in historical costumes, traditional crafts, and medieval culinary delights. [muenchen.travel](https://www.muenchen.travel/artikel/maerkte-feste/weihnachtsmaerkte-in-muenchen), [sueddeutsche.de](https://www.sueddeutsche.de/muenchen/muenchen-weihnachtsmaerkte-christkindlmaerkte-oeffnungszeiten-2025-1.5698518), [muenchen.t-online.de](https://muenchen.t-online.de/region/muenchen/id_101009030/muenchen-weihnachtsmarkt-wie-im-mittelalter-am-wittelsbacher-platz.html)
- Tollwood Winter Festival: Held at Theresienwiese, this alternative market combines organic food, unique handicrafts, and a diverse program of theater, music, and environmental activities. [sueddeutsche.de](https://www.sueddeutsche.de/muenchen/muenchen-weihnachtsmaerkte-christkindlmaerkte-oeffnungszeiten-2025-1.5698518)
- Feuerzangenbowle at Blumenstraße: The famous giant cauldron of Feuerzangenbowle (flaming punch) has moved behind the Schrannenhalle this year due to renovations. [sueddeutsche.de](https://www.sueddeutsche.de/muenchen/muenchen-weihnachtsmaerkte-christkindlmaerkte-oeffnungszeiten-2025-1.5698518)
- Schwabing Christmas Market: Located at Münchner Freiheit, this market is known for its artistic flair, showcasing handicrafts and cultural performances. [sueddeutsche.de](https://www.sueddeutsche.de/muenchen/muenchen-weihnachtsmaerkte-christkindlmaerkte-oeffnungszeiten-2025-1.5698518)
- Christmas Market at the Chinese Tower: Nestled in the English Garden, this market offers a romantic setting with craft stalls, regional delicacies, and activities like ice stock sport. [sueddeutsche.de](https://www.sueddeutsche.de/muenchen/muenchen-weihnachtsmaerkte-christkindlmaerkte-oeffnungszeiten-2025-1.5698518)
- Pink Christmas: Munich’s queer Christmas market at Stephansplatz, known for its pink illumination, unique performances, and vibrant atmosphere. [sueddeutsche.de](https://www.sueddeutsche.de/muenchen/muenchen-weihnachtsmaerkte-christkindlmaerkte-oeffnungszeiten-2025-1.5698518)
- Winterzauber Gans am Wasser: A tranquil oasis in Westpark, offering mulled wine, readings, and fire shows by a romantically lit lake. [sueddeutsche.de](https://www.sueddeutsche.de/muenchen/muenchen-weihnachtsmaerkte-christkindlmaerkte-oeffnungszeiten-2025-1.5698518)
- Alte Utting’s Sternenflotte: A unique market on a repurposed steamer, offering a blend of nomadic culture, gift stalls, and live music. [sueddeutsche.de](https://www.sueddeutsche.de/muenchen/muenchen-weihnachtsmaerkte-christkindlmaerkte-oeffnungszeiten-2025-1.5698518)
- Mondscheinexpress at Bahnwärter Thiel: An alternative winter festival with artisan stalls, live music, and a vibrant cultural program. [sueddeutsche.de](https://www.sueddeutsche.de/muenchen/muenchen-weihnachtsmaerkte-christkindlmaerkte-oeffnungszeiten-2025-1.5698518)
- Märchenbazar at Olympiapark: A fairytale-themed market with circus tents, film sets, and a diverse program of shows and workshops. [sueddeutsche.de](https://www.sueddeutsche.de/muenchen/muenchen-weihnachtsmaerkte-christkindlmaerkte-oeffnungszeiten-2025-1.5698518)
- Haidhauser Weihnachtsmarkt: A cozy and traditional market at Weißenburger Platz, known for its relaxed atmosphere and handcrafted goods. [sueddeutsche.de](https://www.sueddeutsche.de/muenchen/muenchen-weihnachtsmaerkte-christkindlmaerkte-oeffnungszeiten-2025-1.5698518)
- Werksviertel Christmas Market: Located at Knödelplatz, this market offers an ice rink, ice stock sport, and a variety of food and warm drinks. [sueddeutsche.de](https://www.sueddeutsche.de/muenchen/muenchen-weihnachtsmaerkte-christkindlmaerkte-oeffnungszeiten-2025-1.5698518)
- Winterrausch im Hexenhaus: An atmospheric market in Giesing, featuring live music, fire shows, and workshops around a distinctive ‘witch’s house’ architecture. [sueddeutsche.de](https://www.sueddeutsche.de/muenchen/muenchen-weihnachtsmaerkte-christkindlmaerkte-oeffnungszeiten-2025-1.5698518)
Munich’s commitment to creating a festive and welcoming environment ensures that Christmas 2025 will be a memorable experience for all.
Source: [tz.de](https://www.tz.de/muenchen/stadt/muenchens-weihnachtlichste-orte-2025-diese-spots-lohnensich-besonders-94098191.html), [muenchen.travel](https://www.muenchen.travel/artikel/maerkte-feste/weihnachtsmaerkte-in-muenchen), [sueddeutsche.de](https://www.sueddeutsche.de/muenchen/muenchen-weihnachtsmaerkte-christkindlmaerkte-oeffnungszeiten-2025-1.5698518), [muenchen.de](https://www.muenchen.de/veranstaltungen/weihnachtsmaerkte-christkindlmaerkte-2025), [muenchen.t-online.de](https://muenchen.t-online.de/region/muenchen/id_101009030/muenchen-weihnachtsmarkt-wie-im-mittelalter-am-wittelsbacher-platz.html)
