Chances are you have been to one of Europe’s famous Christmas markets (or you are at least planning to go). But do you actually know that, come Springtime hundreds of Easter Egg markets are taking place across Europe and in particular Germany?
Easter Egg markets (also simply called Easter markets) are part of a century long tradition centred in old pagan rituals celebrating the arrival of Spring.
The markets take place during the season of Lent, between Ash Wednesday and Easter Sunday. They are usually small, mostly hold in-doors, and often last only a weekend or two. Otherwise the concept largely follows that of Christmas markets: There will be stalls selling all sorts of traditional Easter decorations, there will be demonstrations and workshops that concentrate on the tradition of egg-decoration, and of course at most markets there will be stalls selling food and drinks.
Though few Easter markets also take place in larger cities, like Berlin or Hamburg, most are located in smaller, often historic towns. For me, they are a perfect excuse to spend a weekend in one of Germany’s many lovely country hotels, enjoying excellent food and having fun exploring the markets and surrounding areas.
A particular well know German Eater market – and one of my favourite – is the Michelstadt Easter Egg market. Nestled in the beautiful Odenwald region of Germany, Michelstadt is a charming small medieval town just an hour drive time outside of Frankfurt. A beautiful location at any time during the year with its historic half-timbered houses and cobbled streets, the town is particularly charming when dressed up with Easter decorations in the historic town centre.
Another absolutely gorgeous Easter market takes place in the nearby historic town of Miltenberg on the Main.
There is no particular website listing where or when Easter Egg markets will take place. Yet they are happening throughout many German cities, towns and villages. If you are interested to visit one, the best way to get started is to google ‘Easter Market’ or ‘Ostermarkt’ in German. There will be plenty of results coming up.
The largest or better known markets take place in Berlin, Hamburg, Wiesbaden, Nurnberg, Dresden, Leipzig Dinkelsbühl, Michelstadt, Miltenberg, Maulbronn and Mannheim. Several can also be found outside of Germany like the ones in Vienna and Prague.
Have you ever been at an Easter Egg market? What do you think about this tradition?
Carrots and Tigers 