Several German cities decided to cancel their Christmas markets due to surges in COVID-19 infections. Thankfully, with strict precautions, the Aachen Christmas Market 2021 is open! As much as I love Christmas Markets, this was music to my ears! The Aachen Christmas Market 2021 entry requirements are pretty standard for most European events: a recent negative test result for coronavirus, proof of full vaccination, or proof of recovery. (Source: Germany Tourism Board) There are active checks at the food and drink stands. Guests need to present their documents to the staff and receive a bracelet to enter these areas. Police also conduct random checks throughout the market areas and enforce mask-wearing throughout the market areas.
Now to the fun stuff. The Aachen Christmas Market or the Weihnachtsmarkt (German) is considered one of the most picturesque markets in Germany. The market extends to several squares across the city center. Come hungry and with your shopping list! There are plenty of stalls offering gifts, food, and of course drinks! We started with a warm mug of Glühwein (mulled wine). Served in an adorable boot-shaped mug, it makes the perfect souvenir to take home. When you purchase the Glühwein, you also pay for a deposit. Just in case you don’t want to keep the mug, you can return it and get your deposit back.
Eating & Drinking at the Aachen Christmas Market
I feel that German cuisine doesn’t get the love it deserves sometimes compared to its other European neighbors. I lived in Stuttgart for a year and fell in love with the bread, cheese, and sausages. So, of course, I couldn’t resist buying a plate of currywurst, chopped sausage with a tangy curry-laced tomato sauce, and crispy fries. It also presents the opportunity to indulge in a proper German pilsner! Like I mentioned before, bring your appetite because there are plenty of treats at the Aachen Christmas Market! You can’t leave without a warm apple strudel, and there are plenty of stalls selling cookies, chocolates, and candies you can bring home.
Practical Tips for the Aachen Christmas Market 2021
I highly recommend coming on a weekday. We went on a Wednesday night by car from Brussels, and it was a pretty smooth ride. However, we hear there can be horrible traffic getting into the city on the weekends, arriving by train may a better option. We could find parking easily at a parking garage just a twenty-minute walk from the Aachen Christmas Market. Make sure to bring cash since some vendors don’t accept cards! Also, don’t forget your ID, COVID vaccine information, your mask, and most importantly, your appetite! Be safe & have fun!
