They used to dance around their market stalls, but today they perform on stage: the market women at the Viktualienmarkt know how to create a good atmosphere. In the past, the so-called “market women’s dance” was still considered an insider tip, but today it is the highlight of the Munich Carnival finale. The desire to present a friendlier image has given rise to a legendary carnival tradition that you shouldn’t miss.
Dancing to polish up the image
Photo: Wikimedia Commons, CC0
The women of the Viktualienmarkt had a reputation for being “grumpy market women. “ To shake off this image, they began dancing around their stalls during Carnival season at the beginning of the 20th century. Carnival music played and they handed out free schnapps. Eventually, they also dressed up and danced not only alone, but also with their neighbors at other stalls. Together, they heralded the end of Carnival.
Over time, the market women’s dance gained popularity and evolved from an insider tip to a celebrated performance. At some point, the women no longer danced around their market stalls, but on the pavement of the beer garden and, in 1987, finally on the stage in front of the maypole. Twelve women perform the market women’s dance on Shrove Tuesday, presented by the Narrhalla and the mayor.
The Market Women’s Dance today
What started as a simple idea has now become a professional performance. The dancers begin rehearsing the choreography four months before the actual show under the direction of dance teacher Christian Langer. The costumes have also evolved and involve a great deal of effort. The market women either make them themselves or have them made by a tailor. The costumes refer to the market woman’s actual stall.
Even today, the dancers still work as saleswomen at the Viktualienmarkt, selling their wares to men and women alike. They no longer have a reputation for being grumpy, but the custom of the market women’s dance has remained. This year, you can experience them live again on Shrove Tuesday when they give their best performance. The classic “Wagen von der Linie 8” kicks off at 11 a.m., before they show you their new dances. After the market women’s dance , you can continue celebrating into the evening at the Viktualienmarkt and at the market women’s stalls. Or you can move on to Marienplatz and Stachus, where a colorful stage program also awaits you.
📍 Location: Viktualienmarkt
📅 Date: Shrove Tuesday, February 17, starting at 9:30 a.m.
💶 Price information: Free