Main Square

The town square is where the real Christmas magic begins. The Reiterlesmarkt (rider’s market) has a tradition of at least 500 years. The Christmas spirit is almost tangible as you walk past glittering stalls selling Glüwein, bratwurst, christmasy knick knacks, and ornaments. With lights dripping off every surface and cheery stall owners selling their wares, the Reiterlesmarkt is a far cry from the commercialized markets of big cities like nearby Nuremberg. And while the Rothenburg Christmas Market is crowded, there is still plenty of space to stop and sip your Glüwein while enjoying some quality people watching. If you’re lucky enough to make it to opening day, you’ll witness why it’s called the rider’s market. Rothenburg ob der Tauber tradition includes a man in medieval traveling garb riding a horse into town. Why? No one really knows, but it’s been going on for 500 years so… why stop now? Other regular events include personalized ornaments and chocolate figurine-making and plenty of musical concerts. A brass band takes the Rothenburg Christmas Market stage every day in the square and floods the area with sounds of the holidays.