Christmas markets in Germany are truly magical. They’ve become one of my favorite ways to celebrate the season and get into the Christmas spirit. I didn’t grow up with Christmas market culture, but having spent many holidays here over the past twelve years, it is now my adopted holiday tradition.
Honestly though, as charming as the markets are, they aren’t exactly built with kids in mind. Sure, there are sweets, plenty of snacks, and the occasional carnival-style ride, but all of that usually lasts about as long as half my Glühwein mug. So this year, I knew we needed something that would actually engage the kids while we wandered through the twinkly chaos.
Here’s where we created the Christmas Market Scavenger Hunt.
I’m rating Christmas markets this year, so here’s the honest kid feedback after a trial run:
Scavenger Hunt: 10/10
Christmas Market Journal Page: 6/10
(I still stand by the journal page. It’s fun and reflective. We’re going to keep using it, so I promise to keep updating it as the season goes on based on what my kids like. Follow along and I’ll share any new versions. Or, use the journal page as an adult too if you’re visiting multiple markets!)
How we used each activity
Scavenger Hunt
Before releasing your children into the crowded rows of Christmas town like tiny, sugared-up elves, set expectations. This isn’t a “roam free through the crowds” activity, unless that’s your style, in which case definitely set a clear meet-up point.
When we went with friends this weekend, the 9- and 11-year-old teamed up and wandered an aisle or two on their own (within our comfort zone), while the younger kids stayed with us. Kids around 3–4 years old can totally do this from a stroller as you roll through the market.
We tested the scavenger hunt at a smaller market and found everything on the list. Even if some items sound rare, trust me: once you start noticing all the decorations and tiny details, they pop up everywhere.
It’s not meant to be competitive bingo (we gave every kid the same card and encouraged teamwork), but you can set it up however motivates your crew. Just make sure each child or group has a writing utensil to mark their list.
Bonus: This works perfectly for one of my favorite American traditions too – driving around looking at Christmas lights!
Download the Scavenger Hunt here:
Christmas Market Journal Page
This one is great for slightly older kids (around 7–12). They can read it before you head out, complete a few tasks along the way, and reflect on their favorite moments afterward.
My 9-year-old especially loved the selfie challenges and took the “find a favorite smell” task very seriously. Yours might surprise you too.
My kids didn’t actually write anything down this time this time – we just talked through the questions as we walked, and it worked just as well. If your family takes warm-up breaks inside a café or hut, this is the perfect quiet-time activity.
Download the Journal Page here:
Have fun out there, and let me know how your kids rate them!
