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Every year thousands of people crowd into the Marienplatz to watch the city's Lord Mayor announce the official opening of the Christmas Market or Christkindlmarkt. This ceremonial event happens on the Saturday before the first day of Advent and is the time when the Lord Mayor turns on the lights to the Christmas decorations, including those on the large tree in the town square. The origins of the market can be traced back to the Nicholas Market, which started in 1310. It is a great place to soak up the festive spirit and to buy Christmas gifts. There are also plenty of stalls offering traditional Bavarian culinary delights, including baked apples, roasted almonds and pepper nuts. Particular regional specialities include Lebkuchen, Springerle (aniseed-flavoured biscuits), Fruechtebrot (loaves containing dried fruit), Schmalzgebaeck (deep-fried cakes), hot chestnuts and figurines made from plums. And when the shopping gets too much, head to one of the drinks tents for a warming glass of Gluhwein or hot mulled wine. There are plenty of activities for children too, including choir singing, nativity displays and various workshops.

Times
Mon-Fri 1000-2030; Sat 0900-2030; Sun 1000-1930; Christmas Eve 1000-1400.