THE AFRICAN COURIER. Reporting Africa and its Diaspora! The African Courier is an international magazine published in Germany to report on Africa and the Diaspora African experience. The first issue of the bimonthly magazine appeared on the newsstands on 15 February 1998. The African Courier is a communication forum for European-African political, economic and cultural exchanges, and a voice for Africa in Europe.
Germany’s beloved Christmas market season begins earlier than ever in 2025, transforming city squares into glowing hubs of music, scent, and joy. These festive gatherings are more than seasonal entertainment — they are spaces for community connection, cross-cultural experience and family fun.
In the north, Hamburg leads the way, opening its markets from 21 November 2025. The historic Rathausmarkt Christmas Market offers the enchanting Spielzeuggasse (“Toy Street”), where children marvel at a huge model railway display winding through toy stalls. Families can also enjoy the open-air ice-skating rink near the City Hall, while adults savour roasted almonds and mulled wine.
In the west, Cologne’s Cathedral Market opens on 17 November, with more than 150 stalls shimmering beneath the Gothic spires. Younger visitors can enjoy a spin on the historic carousel or try the Heumarkt ice rink, while the city’s “Fairy-Tale Forest” market in the Stadtwald offers lantern walks, story-telling and puppet theatre. The atmosphere is magical — ideal for families seeking a calmer, storybook-like setting.
Further south, Munich’s Marienplatz Christmas Market opens on 24 November 2025 and runs to Christmas Eve. Its highlight for families is the Heavenly Workshop (Himmelswerkstatt), where children aged six to twelve dress as angels and make tree ornaments or cards under friendly supervision. The Kasperl-theatre puppet shows in the Town Hall courtyard delight younger children, while older ones can head to the Karlsplatz ice rink nearby.
In Hanover, the Old Town Christmas Market opens on 24 November, featuring a medieval village with blacksmiths, wood-carvers and open fires — a learning adventure for children and parents alike. In Berlin, the capital’s major markets, including Gendarmenmarkt and Alexanderplatz, officially begin on 24 November and extend into late December, with crafts, live music and international food.
Beyond their charm, these markets serve as inclusive meeting grounds for Germany’s multicultural population. They offer a welcoming atmosphere to share traditions, strengthen networks and introduce children to German customs. Many markets provide free or low-cost workshops, making them accessible for refugee and migrant families.
From handcrafted gifts to the aroma of cinnamon and the laughter around skating rinks, Germany’s Christmas markets 2025 promise warmth and wonder for all ages — a perfect moment to celebrate not only the season, but also the shared spirit of community that bridges cultures.
