Munich’s most iconic Christmas symbol — the towering tree on Marienplatz — has a special international origin this year. A 25-meter spruce from Ellmau, a well-known Alpine community beneath the Wilder Kaiser in Tyrol, has been transported to Bavaria’s capital for the holiday season.
If all went smoothly, the tree was scheduled to be raised on Thursday, bringing a touch of Austrian mountain charm to Munich’s historic main square.
A tradition revived after many years
Tree donations are a long-standing tradition: each year a different town gifts a spruce to Munich, proudly representing its region during the Christkindlmarkt. This time, the honour returns to Austria for the first time in decades — thanks to an application that was submitted roughly 30 years ago.
Local host and innkeeper Andreas Hörhager once expressed interest in donating a tree when he lived in the Zillertal valley. That request was rediscovered recently — and finally approved. Today, Hörhager runs the Wochenbrunner Alm in Ellmau, and the entire community is delighted to showcase its Alpine spirit in Munich.
A spruce with Alpine character — and its own story
The chosen tree grew halfway up the mountain road leading to the Wochenbrunner Alm, visible to hikers and travellers with the peaks of the Kaisergebirge towering above. Ellmau officials say the spruce had become unstable at its location along a curve, making removal necessary for safety reasons.
Rather than go to waste, the majestic tree now takes centre stage as a symbol of winter joy for millions of Munich residents and international visitors.
Tyrol brings more than just a Christmas tree
As custom dictates, the donating community brings festive flair to the Christkindlmarkt’s opening ceremonies. Ellmau will operate a cosy Glühwein stand in the courtyard of City Hall, offering a taste of holiday hospitality from the Austrian Alps — complete with information about the Wilder Kaiser region.
On opening night, Ellmau’s local brass band will perform, adding music to the official lighting ceremony and strengthening cultural ties between neighbours.
Christkindlmarkt opening: key dates and highlights
Munich’s historic Christmas market opens on Monday, 24 November, at 17:00 on Marienplatz. Its history dates back to the 14th century, and since 1972 it has been held annually in front of the Rathaus.
Opening times:
- • Mon–Sat: 10:00–21:00
- • Sun: 10:00–20:00
- • Closing day — 24 December: until 14:00
A crowd favourite returns: the traditional Krampuslauf on 14 December, when hundreds of masked figures — Krampus, Perchten and Klause — parade through the market. From Sunday to Thursday, festive music floats across the square from the Rathaus balcony.
With Alpine hospitality, glowing lights and Munich tradition combined, this year’s Christmas celebrations promise to shine brighter than ever.
