The first markt — literally the “Christ child market” — began as an angelic “spirit of Christmas” street market in Germany during the Middle Ages in the four weeks of Advent. The oldest one on record began in Munich in 1310. Also known as Weihnachtsmarkt (Christmas market) they featured open stalls, food, music, drinks, and dancing.
Through the years, they evolved to include various gifts such as nutcrackers, ornaments, gingerbread, candied fruits, wines, and other delicacies. Although still centered in German-speaking Europe, today Christkindlmarkets are held throughout the world.
