Christmas markets are a distinctly German tradition, and the event held in the Bavarian city of Nuremberg is considered by many to be the quintessential German Christkindlmarkt, attracting nearly two million visitors every year.

With a market tradition dating back to 1628, organisers have made a concerted effort to preserve the market’s traditional, family-oriented atmosphere over the years, avoiding overly modern and commercial elements.

Taking place on the main market square in Old Nuremberg against the backdrop of Frauenkirche (Church of Our Lady), the event officially opened yesterday by the “Christ Child”, a local teenager selected to serve as the event’s ambassador. Among the main market’s 190-candlelit stalls, one can sip steaming gluhwein (mulled wine) from ceramic mugs and sample local foods such as Nurnberger rostbratwurste (grilled sausages), gingerbread cookies, and hutzelbrot fruit bread. If you’re looking for souvenirs, pick up a traditional gold foil Christmas tree angel or a zwetschgenmoh (prune man), a hand-crafted figure made of figs, nuts and prunes.

Notably, the Nuremberg Christkindlemarkt is one of the most child-friendly markets in Europe. Close to the main market is a special children’s market with old-fashioned merry-go-rounds, a Ferris wheel, and a steam train.

There are also candle-making and baking workshops, a Christmas playhouse, and children’s cultural programming at the nearby Sterenhaus (Star House). Children take centre stage on December 8, when 2,000 local school children parade with hand-made lanterns through the city to Nuremberg Castle where they present the Christmas story in living tableaux.

The market closes on December 24.