Overview
- Market season begins this week with Essen opening Nov. 14, while many larger events start Nov. 24–30, including Ulm (Nov. 24–Dec. 24), Ingolstadt (Nov. 25–Dec. 22), and Goslar (Nov. 26–Dec. 30).
- Potsdam rebrands to “Potsdamer Weihnachtszauber,” shifts to Bassinplatz and Luisenplatz, and introduces a daily quiet hour from 18:00 to 19:00 with only background music.
- Brandenburg organizers highlight inclusion measures such as low-volume soundscapes in Cottbus, largely barrier-free layouts, quieter zones in Brandenburg an der Havel, and invitations tailored for people with impairments.
- Distinctive draws range from Goslar’s patented Weihnachtswald with 160,000 lights and guided tours to ice rinks in Cottbus and Brandenburg, Berlin light shows and a new laser display, and Neu-Ulm’s medieval program with fire performances.
- Organizers report steep security cost increases, with Frankfurt citing roughly 300% higher outlays since 2018 and seeking public support as crowds of about 2.3 million are expected from Nov. 24 to Dec. 22.