The Rothenburg Christmas Market (Alt-Rothenburger Reiterlesmarkt) is a traditional Christmas market held in Rothenburg ob der Tauber, a medieval town in Bavaria, Germany. The name “Reiterlesmarkt” comes from the “Rothenburger Reiterle” (little horseman), a mythical figure from local folklore who was believed to fly through the air during wintertime.
The market spans across the Marktplatz (Market Square), (Green Market), and Kirchplatz (Church Square), as well as in the courtyard of the Town Hall. During the Advent season, the entire Old Town is illuminated with a brilliant glow of lights. There are over 60 festively decorated stalls offering local crafts, seasonal treats, and holiday gifts. Visitors can enjoy daily performances by regional brass bands on the stage at the Grüner Markt, filling the air with traditional Christmas music.
A special highlight worth noting: each evening during Advent, a newly decorated window is unveiled on the second floor of the Town Hall. These Advent calendar windows are made by local schoolchildren and youth groups from the surrounding region.
The market’s grand opening ceremony takes place on the Friday before the first Sunday of Advent at the Market Square. Following tradition, the mythical “Reiterle” (the little horseman) arrives on horseback to deliver greetings to the waiting crowd. Then, after welcoming words from Rothenburg’s Mayor, the magnificent Christmas tree in the centre of the square is illuminated, officially beginning the festive season.
2025 market dates
21 November – 23 December 2025
Opening hours on market days
Monday: 11am – 7pm
Tuesday: 11am – 7pm
Wednesday: 11am – 7pm
Thursday: 11am – 7pm
Friday: 11am – 8pm
Saturday: 11am – 8pm
Sunday: 11am – 8pm
Exceptional opening hours
23 November (Sunday) – closed due to Totensonntag (Memorial Sunday)
