The Nuremberg Christkindlesmarkt is one of the oldest Christmas markets in Germany and was first mentioned in writing in 1628 as “Kindles-Marck”. While in 2019 the hustle and bustle of the market on the main market attracted more than two million visitors, in 2020 the Christmas market had to be canceled for the first time in decades due to corona virus.
The Nuremberg Christkindlesmarkt or the Nuremberg Christmas Market will take place in a decentralized form, spread over several locations within the Old Town. This will create more space between the stands. The 2021 event will take place from Friday, November 26 to Christmas Eve, Friday, December 24.
The traditional booths have red-and-white roofs and will be located on the Main Market Square with the Rathausplatz and the Schmuckhof, Jakobsplatz, Lorenzer Platz, and on the Insel Schütt. Visitors to the market can stroll from place to place: The entire Old Town will become a magical Christmas city.
The Children’s Christmas Market at Hans-Sachs-Platz and the children’s cultural program in the Sternenhaus will once again welcome young visitors. In the pedestrian shopping area, “Christmas Islands” will offer a holiday oasis.

The new Nuremberg Christkind, who will be elected on Wednesday, November 3rd, will open the Christkindlesmarkt on Friday, November 26th, at 5.30 p.m. with the solemn prologue – but not on the balcony of the Frauenkirche. The traditional opening ceremony will be moved from the main market to a closed room and cannot be followed on site. The opening ceremony will be broadcast live on television and radio.