Whether you celebrate it or not, Christmas is a contemplative time that promises to slow things down and gives us space to plan enjoyable activities with friends, family or partners that there is no room for in everyday life. There are also plenty of things you can do in Munich during the holidays to have a good time in the city.
Visit a Christmas market
Free admission
Most Christmas markets close at least one day before Christmas Eve, but some remain open on the 24th and beyond. You can still visit the Christmas market on Marienplatz, for example, until 2 p.m. and spend a nice contemplative morning together before getting ready for the evening at home. The Märchenbazar is even open until December 28 and the markets in Westpark, Bogenhausen and Nockherberg are open until the New Year.
Experience a Christmas story live
From 45,80€
Charles Dickens’ Christmas story is an absolute classic. Instead of watching the story as a movie on TV or via streaming, this year you can also experience it on stage. Miroslav Nemec and Udo Wachtveitl are actually known as Tatort detectives and show a different facet of themselves in Martin Mühleis’ musical production. Instead of spending the Christmas holidays on the couch, you should visit the Isarphilharmonie instead and be enchanted by this charming and thought-provoking play with music by the Saga String Quintet.
Stroll along a path of lights
From 16,06€
Christmas is a magical time when everything sparkles, glitters and shines. For the ultimate illuminated experience , visit a light trail such as Lumagica in Cavalluna Park. With its numerous light installations, the trail is the perfect romantic walk during the quiet festive season and also makes the perfect Christmas gift. If you don’t want to commit to a specific date, a gift voucher is the ideal alternative to give the gift of time and experiences.
Listen to a Christmas concert
From 15€
Music is as much a part of Christmas as gingerbread and cinnamon stars. The traditional Christmas concert awaits you again this year at the Gasteig, where you can listen to a quintet consisting of horn, viola, bass, drums and piano as well as singing. Come along on a musical journey around the world and discover the Christmas carols of other countries. Look forward to contributions from South America, Scandinavia, France and, of course, Germany. Sing along to the well-known classics and find new favorites to add to your playlist for next year.
Feel the rhythm at a gospel performance
From 52€
If you fancy an experience full of goosebumps and joie de vivre on Christmas Day, you shouldn’t miss the performance by The Gospel People in Munich. Under the motto “Heal the World”, you can expect a two-hour, emotional program that covers the entire spectrum from traditional black gospel, jazz and soul to modern rock and pop elements. With classics such as “Oh Happy Day” and a rousing stage show, the artists send out a strong message of love and confidence in difficult times – perfect for ending your Christmas with a message of hope and a real sense of community.
Dancing through the night
Varies by club
Who says you can’t go clubbing at Christmas? After all, it’s not called a public holidayfor nothing. And you can party until you drop in Munich’s clubs, as the days off fall on Thursday to Friday this year, so the party can start on Wednesday. After giving presents, it’s straight into the club, e.g. at the Christmas party in the Palais, where you’ll be treated to hot beats until 10 am. At DNA, you don’t pay admission on Christmas Eve, whereas the “Unholy Night” at Blitz is anything but holy. Those who prefer to stay at home on the 24th can dance to Bollywood rhythms at You Loft or make a detour to Bahni on Christmas Day instead.