Wintertime in Düsseldorf
Düsseldorf's Christmas market is both, classic beauty and new holiday sensation: Seven theme markets in one extended outdoor spectacle, combined with the 10th annual FIS Cross-country Skiing Worldcup and world-class shopping, bring a unique variety to the German Christmas market experience. In addition, the reopening of the opera house brings back a flagship of the city's cultural landscape.
Düsseldorf, Germany - From November 17 through December 23, Düsseldorf's Old Town becomes the site of one of the most successful new concepts in traditional Christmas markets. Visitors find seven separate Christmas themes and attractions instead of one large market while strolling through the beautiful historic city center during the holiday shopping season. And the city's excellent high-end shopping, primarily on shopping boulevards Königsallee and Shadowstrasse, adds even more options to the dazzling variety for visitors.
Moreover, visitors may come across professional skiers during the 10th FIS Cross-country Skiing World Cup that takes place right in the city from Dec 2 - 4. Against the silhouette of Altstadt (Old Town), Schlossturm (Castle) and Rheinturm (Rhine Tower), the spectacular artificial snow track will once again see the world's best cross-country skiers sprint for all-important World Cup points.
On the same weekend, the "German Opera on the Rhine" celebrates its reopening with three premiers: Gioacchino Rossini's "Il barbiere di Siviglia" on Dec 2, first new ballet evening "b.10" on Dec 3 and the new "Carmen" on Dec 4.
The new formula for the city's historic Christmas Market has been attracting thousands more to Düsseldorf each holiday season since it was introduced several years ago, including many visitors from Great Britain. The innovative experience takes visitors through seven separate Christmas villages, each featuring a different theme, design, vendors, and attractions. Themes include: An "Angel's Market," with angels and thousands of lights turning the area into a sea of light; a village of artisans working on wrought-iron, glassblowing, and candle making; and booths that are replicas of Düsseldorf's historic town houses. In addition, there will be an extensive programme of family entertainment in a heated tent, an ice rink for free skating and many culinary treats for adults and children. Düsseldorf's luxury shopping avenue "Königsallee," which dazzles shoppers all year long, will be ablaze with holiday cheer, thanks to thousands of lights and decorations in the giant chestnut trees that line this elegant street. Should anybody fail to find the right gift for your loved ones on the Christmas Market, they will not be disappointed in Düsseldorf's many shops and stores.
Visitors during the holiday season can add overnight stays for extended shopping and sightseeing, with many taking advantage of special hotel packages available through the city's tourism website. Hotel specials start at € 59 per person per double room and € 88 for a single room, including breakfast.
The market is open November 17 - December 23, 2011, from 11:00 am - 8:00 pm on Sunday - Thursday; 11:00 am - 9:00 pm on Fridays and Saturdays. It is closed on Sunday, November 20.
For more information on Düsseldorf's Christmas Market and special holiday hotel packages, visit visitduesseldorf.de.
