The festive season in Nuremberg is officially underway. Beginning on 14 November and running until Epiphany, the city’s popular Winter Village once again transforms Jakobsplatz — near the Weißer Turm — into a bright, lively meeting place for families, locals and visitors. Now in its third year, the event has grown into a seasonal fixture alongside the world-famous Christkindlesmarkt.
This year’s edition promises even more atmosphere, more food choices and an expanded programme for children, while familiar favourites like the ferris wheel and the rustic alpine hut return in full charm.
More stalls, more food, more lights: organisers expand the experience
The Winter Village has steadily increased in scale, and 2025 is no exception. Event organiser Robert Förster says the team has welcomed a growing number of regulars and wants to keep the village accessible for everyone. Prices for mulled wine, beer and the classic Nuremberg sausages remain unchanged — a deliberate decision amid rising costs in many other Christmas markets.
Visitors can expect additional stalls, broader culinary options and enhanced decoration throughout the square. New lighting installations, including illuminated trees and extended garland chains, are set to give the entire area a warmer, more festive glow.
Family attractions: ferris wheel, fairy-tale carousel and winter maze
The ferris wheel remains one of the centrepieces, offering views over the decorated old town. Younger guests can enjoy the fairy-tale carousel, while families are once again invited to explore the winter labyrinth — a returning crowd-pleaser.
A new feature for the season is the custom photo booth, where guests can take souvenir snapshots designed specifically for the Winter Village theme, creating a lasting memory of Nuremberg’s seasonal festivities.
Food variety continues to grow — and the alpine hut adds cosy charm
Food is a major draw: from flammlachs and pasta stirred directly inside a wheel of parmesan to roasted corn, chimney cakes, chocolate-dipped fruit and freshly steamed dumplings. The list grows each year, reflecting Nuremberg’s broader shift toward more diverse Christmas-season street food.
Two indoor areas provide shelter from the cold — the Stadl and the Winter Village Café. Both locations allow visitors to bring dishes from any stall on the square, offering a comfortable, social space when temperatures drop. These rooms are also available for private bookings.
A festive tradition still growing
Though still a relatively young addition to the city’s Christmas calendar, the Winter Village has quickly embedded itself into Nuremberg’s holiday identity. With improved lighting, expanded family attractions and a commitment to stable prices, organisers say they hope to strengthen the event’s reputation as a warm, welcoming alternative to the packed Christkindlesmarkt.
For families, groups of friends or anyone looking to enjoy the season in a relaxed setting, Jakobsplatz is once again set to become one of Nuremberg’s most festive corners.
