The Striezelmarkt in Dresden, Germany, is widely considered to be the oldest Christmas market in the world. It boasts a rich history dating back to 1434, when it was initially established as a one-day market for meat and food vendors in the lead-up to Christmas. Throughout the centuries, the Striezelmarkt has evolved into a festive wonderland, attracting millions of visitors from around the globe each year.

This market event was first mentioned in 1434, under Friedrich II, Elector of Saxony, when it was held the Monday before Christmas on the Altmarkt square. Originally, it was a one-day market to provide the citizens of Dresden with the sale of meat for the Christmas meal after the traditional Advent period of fasting.

In the 21st century, the Striezelmarkt has developed into a huge event with 240 stands. It takes up a large part of Dresden city centre and lasts throughout the Advent period until Christmas Eve. Its 240 stands attract about 3 million visitors from all over the world. The annual market lasts throughout the Advent season until Christmas Eve.

Today the most famous features of Dresden Striezelmarkt are the world’s largest usable Christmas arch with a breadth of 13.5 meters and a height of more than 5 meters and the 14-metre high Erzgebirge Christmas pyramid. During Advent weekends, special events such as Dresden Stollen Festival and Pyramid and Christmas Arch Festival take place.

At the centre of the Striezelmarkt stands a 20 meters high spruce, brought from the nearby Tharandt woods and decorated with lights. At the back of the market square there is a painted wooden fairy-tale castle, designed to operate as a giant Advent calendar. Children’s entertainers open a door each day and present a puppet show. On Fridays, Father Christmas himself visits.

The Striezelmarkt is known for its festive atmosphere, adorned with lights and decorations, and often features special events and performances to celebrate the holiday spirit.

According to the Internet