For almost four weeks at the Medieval Market, merchants in historical garments offer their goods for sale just as they did hundreds of years ago. Craftsmen like pewterers, felt-makers, tinder-makers, blacksmiths, rope-makers, basket-makers, broom-makers or glass-blowers demonstrate their craftsmanship. Furthermore, in the streets and on various stages artists fascinate their audience with juggling, music and nonsense.
All around, Esslingen´s medieval half-timbered houses create a unique and spectacular backdrop. The Middle Ages with all one´s senses, lock, stock and barrel. It is little wonder that crowds flock to this spectacle - from the region, from Germany, from all over the world. Esslingen is never so close to its history and to itself than in the pre-Christmas weeks - when the whole town takes a thrilling trip back in time.
The Esslingen Medieval Market & Christmas Market has a lot to offer for young & old: In the hands-on workshops, visitors can learn traditional crafts such as bookbinding or garment sewing and medieval speech for themselves. Younger visitors can try their hand at the hands-on circus in the fairy tale tent, listen to the storyteller or watch the puppeteer. Every visitor can prove his dexterity at catapult shooting, axe throwing, egg cracking and many other funny games. Exciting adventure offers such as staff fencing course, historical dance festival, archery tournament, falconry or the famous torchlight procession to the castle complete the supporting program.
But also the friends of the traditional Christmas market do not miss out in Esslingen. The smell of roasted almonds and stomach bread lures visitors to the market square, where stalls selling Christmas decorations, knitwear or handicrafts are sure to have the right Christmas gift for every taste and budget.
