Some ancient historic events are still celebrated today, one of which includes the discovery of America in 1492, now known as Columbus Day. However, one event is even older than the discovery of America, and it has attracted millions of visitors since its beginning. In less than 14 days, the mythical Christmas market opens once again. Discover why this mythical Christmas market has made an annual return for the past 591 years, and perhaps you will add it to your list of must-do Christmas festivities.
A mythical Christmas market older than the discovery of America
We enjoy a jolly old Christmas market as much as the next person, but have you ever wondered where it all started? The markets with their festive vibes we all know and love today are commonly associated with twinkling lights, seasonal food and drink, and, lest we forget, the holiday music (are you also thinking about Mariah Carey’s All I Want for Christmas Is You?).
However, the Christmas markets from ancient times looked quite different. Originally, these markets were not intended to celebrate Christmas, but sold essentials needed for harsh winters instead, which is why they were referred to as winter markets. Most believe that the origin of a certain mythical Christmas market has inspired the modern-day Christmas markets.
In fact, this market dates back to 1434 in Dresden, Germany. At the time, the Elector of Saxony, Frederick II, permitted a one-day market to sell meat for Christmas dinners after the Advent fast. Fast-forward 591 years, and you will find the modern-day mythical Christmas market that opens in less than 14 days.
Historically mythical and magical
While the UK is home to Europe’s second-best Christmas market in 2025, Germany has snatched the crown for the number one. This market was dubbed the world’s oldest, and now it’s the world’s best. The Striezelmarkt in Dresden is a familiar and beloved Christmas tradition for many. This year, the historic Striezelmarkt promises to be equally mythical and magical.
Altmarkt Square will be filled with 240 Christmas stalls, and there will be daily festivities and activities for visitors of all ages to look forward:
- Fairy tales in Märchenhaus (fairy tale house) and Wichtelkino (fairy tale cinema)
- Ore Mountain arts and crafts workshops
- Dresden stollen bakers
- Pflaumentoffelhaus’ (little prune man house) Christmas baking and handicrafts
- Adventskalendar’s puppet theatre
- Changing and free cultural programme on the Striezelmarkt stage
The mythical Christmas market opens in less than 14 days
Visitors can look forward to Striezelmarkt’s return to Altmarkt Square on 26 November 2025, and it will remain open until 24 December, giving plenty of time for Christmas fanatics to eat, drink, and be merry! The highlights of the Striezelmarkt that one should not miss are:
- Advent Calendar Festival – 29 November
- Day of the Church – 30 November
- Dresdner Stoller Festival – 6 December
- Gingerbread festival – 7 December
- Pyramid Festival – 13 December
- Christmas crafts day – 14 December
- Great Miner’s Parade – 20 December
- Festival of the Choirs – 21 December
- Farewell to the Striezelmarkt – 24 December
Please note that the Striezelmarkt is a highly popular market, attracting millions of visitors each year. That is why using public transport is advised, as available parking is limited. Those travelling by train to Dresden main station can reach the market via a 15-minute walk. Another option is travelling by train to Altmarkt or Prager Straße, which is nearby.
This time of year is truly magical, and the mythical Christmas markets add to the holiday cheer. For those of you planning to visit the Striezelmarkt in Dresden, Germany, this year, please note that all British passport holders now face stricter EU regulations. Fortunately, these new regulations should not take up too much of your time, but being mentally prepared for the latest security checks will allow the process to be even quicker. This way, you will remain in the Christmas festive vibe.
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