Rostock Christmas Market

Every year, exactly four weeks before the biggest celebration of the year, Rostock opens what is, by its own account, the largest festival in northern Germany—or at least the largest in the booming Christmas market business.

The day after the opening, in the cool November breeze, with no snow in sight, we followed the Christmas market route from Neuer Markt to Kröpeliner Tor and back along Lange Straße. Fortunately, the children did little more than gaze in wonder, mostly in silence. We took stock of the offerings at the many splendidly and imaginatively decorated stalls and compared prices.
Judging by the sounds reaching us, Kröpeliner Straße had become Little (South) Sweden, as our Scandinavian neighbors like to use the run-up to Christmas—and not just that time of year—for a (shopping) trip to the Hanseatic city. The authentic Swedish glögg stall, however, caught the attention of more local visitors—at least until they had tasted the dark, hot and sweet drink for the first time.
Other “newcomers,” such as Bavarians and people from the Ore Mountains, also had stalls.
A distinctive touch was added by the few Borussia Dortmund fans, who were still putting on a confident front before their (lost) match against Hansa Rostock.

The Christmas market organizers made clever use of the ample space available to create a varied route for the crowds of visitors. The children’s carousels occasionally gave parents a chance to enjoy the many treats in peace while they waited for their little ones. As tradition dictates, the gigantic Ferris wheel stood as if leaning beside Kröpeliner Tor, while the most spectacular rides—with their spins and jolts, sometimes combined—were grouped together.
Many retailers, including the largest department store in the city center, were also open on Sunday.

Speaking of business sense: I recently read in the daily press that, according to the relevant trade association, the prices of amusement rides are carefully calculated, since their enormous costs, necessary investments and safety requirements make this essential. But what if the customers don’t come? Do prices then have to be raised even further, so that the costs are, so to speak, spread among fewer riders?
A little more business math here wouldn’t hurt—and would benefit everyone involved.

The “alternative” Christmas market led an undeservedly overlooked existence, probably not by chance beside St. Mary’s Church. Real straw in the manger, medieval music and a distinctive atmosphere made the detour worthwhile.
After a circular walk of almost four kilometers, we reached the—legal—parking lot and made up our minds: We’ll be back next year!

Jens Wille
Photo: Rostock and Warnemünde Tourism Office