German travelers can enjoy famed Christmas markets thanks to drive-thrus in Bavaria

German Christmas markets aren’t lost in the pandemic shuffle

In year’s past, the German Christmas markets were as much a part of the season as Santa and his elves. But with the pandemic, things have changed. Whereas we would typically see these markets start popping up at the start of November, the holidays are looking a bit different.

However, it seems that not all is lost, as one chef is doing his part to keep the spirit of the season alive in the Bavaria region of Germany. According to Travel and Leisure, “in Landshut, about an hour northeast of Munich in Bavaria,” Patrick Schmidt has taken the idea of the Christmas markets and transformed it into a drive-thru experience.

The Christkindl Drive-in opened up on Nov. 12 and features everything you would expect from these famed markets, but in a safe, socially distanced atmosphere that even includes fake snow falling!

This Christmas market in Landshut still brings the holiday spirit

On top of the fake snow (which we are here for), this market features many of the good eats we expect from a Christmas market in Germany. Visitors can snag mulled wine, punch, crepes, goulash, and so much more.

But it’s not just about the food (even if our stomachs think it is), as Schmidt is trying to provide an entire experience with his drive-thru market. With the traditional Christmas markets in Germany being closed because of the latest pandemic shutdowns across the world, this is a chance for people to still enjoy the traditions they have come to love with the added benefit of being safe.

For those considering a visit to this drive-thru Christmas market, it is only open Thursdays through Sundays, with its hours of operation being 11 a.m. until 8 p.m.. The market is set to shut down on Dec. 20, so if you are in Germany, you may want to plan a trip to Landshut to enjoy this epic market experience.

If you are an American heading to Germany, there is a mandatory 10 day quarantine period and a form that needs to be filled out first. And with less travelers heading to Europe and Germany this holiday season, the German National Tourist Board is hoping international travelers will embrace their traditions and share the love virtually as part of their Christmas Sparkle campaign. To see how people are celebrating with the Christmas Sparkle campaign, you can check out #GermanyXmas on social media.

Do you think more markets like this will pop up in Europe or the U.S.? Do you want to see something like this near you? Tell us in the comments.