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Things to do in Frankfurt

Christmas market

FRANKFURT - MORE THAN JUST CHRISTMAS MARKETS

There are so many wonderful things to see and do in Germany at Christmas. Stroll through festively decorated streets and explore the enchanting Christmas markets with their seasonal music and choir singing. Listen to the sounds of bells and trumpeters and attend one of the many concerts from classical to gospel in the churches and on outdoor stages. Adorned with decorations and festively lit, the pedestrian precincts and shopping centres offer everything your heart could desire. The arts and entertainment scene also takes a seasonal turn in December: in Germany’s major cities, you’ll find everything from plays, operettas and musicals to spellbinding readings.

Frankfurt's Christmas market, one of the oldest (1393) and prettiest in Germany, attracts more than three million visitors every year from all over the world. On Römerberg square, Paulsplatz and Mainkai quay, 200 stalls offer arts and crafts and festive food and drink. A varied programme features Advent concerts, trumpet-playing from the balcony of St. Nicholas's Church and the carillon on the 30-metre-tall Christmas tree.

HISTORY

The Frankfurt Christmas Market is indeed no ordinary event. Its history can be traced back to 1393, when first reference thereof was made in official documentation. The market was traditionally accompanied by the performance of ecclesiastical mystery plays, which were also held on the Römerberg. The original mystery play was presumably based on a historical encounter that occurred in 941, when King Otto the Great and his brother Heinrich reconciled after a long period of estrangement. Heinrich had dropped to his knees before his brother outside of the chapel after Christmas mass. This moving scene was put to canvas by the artist Alfred Rethel. Today, the painting resides in Frankfurt´s Historical Museum.

CHRISTMAS DELICACIES

"Brenten", "Bethmaennchen" and "Quetschemaennchen" - miniature candy figures - are three typical Frankfurt biscuits that look back upon a long culinary tradition. In former times, large quantities were produced in the bourgeois homes of the city centre. The 19th-century suitor customarily sent a packet of this popular confectionery to the object of his desires. If she kept this present, the admirer could hope to continue his advances. If she did not, it served as a notice for the suitor to abandon his efforts. Ahh, how the times have changed!

Bethmännchen were enjoyed by no less than Frankfurt’s favourite son, Johann Wolfgang von Goethe. Originally, Bethmännchen were covered with four almond halves, each representing one of the four sons of the famous Frankfurt banker, Simon Moritz von Bethmann. After the death of one of his sons in 1845, only three almond halves were used.

CHRISTMAS TOUR

Become acquainted with the market's many culinary specialities and its traditions while learning more about historical and modern Frankfurt, Frankfurt personalities and the market itself. During the tour you can visit the rooftop gallery of St. Nicholas Church, from where you will be able to enjoy a wonderful panorama view of the entire market and the Frankfurt skyline. Next, join young and old for a nostalgic ride on a vintage carousel. Warm yourself with a hot cup of mulled wine at the end of the tour and take in the wonderful view of the market’s beautifully illuminated Christmas tree.

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