Advent in the Rhine Valley. These are wintery, illuminated alleyways, with festive music and twinkling lights. It means remembering and experiencing the scent of grapevine and roast meat, gingerbread, mulled wine and stories of old times: over 12 nations from 4 continents offer goods, specialities, habits and customs of the season: good and beautiful things from East and West, from Europe and overseas.
At 124 Christmas stalls, twelve nations offer specialities from their home countries. Candle makers, glass blowers, pewterers, porcelain painters, lantern makers, fire painters and doll makers showcase their crafts at the market. A life-size nativity scene is the heart and centrepiece of the marketplace.
Classical singers and stars from radio and television, choirs and music groups present their Advent programme on the stages. The Music Cabinet, Toy Museum and changing exhibitions are open and offer an eventful, atmospheric change of pace. Nativity trails, vineyards and special places invite you to go on winter hikes and walks.
Families with children can enjoy Advent programmes at the weekends with Rüdesheim's Father Christmas and the Christ Child: Rabbit village, pony rides, railway and carousel - variety and relaxation in the turbulent pre-Christmas period.
The shops are open throughout the market days, the boat lines offer trips and programmes on the wintry Rhine.
Text source and further information on the Christmas market at: http://w-d-n.de/programme