During the pre-Christmas season, Hessian cities like Bad Nauheim, Hanau, and Frankfurt offer special actions to draw visitors. Free public transport, illuminated markets, and discounts make the advent period appealing. An overview highlights the key events in several locations.
The advent season in Hessen is marked by diverse events. In Bad Nauheim, visitors park for free on public lots during advent weekends, and city and regional buses are gratis on Saturdays. On November 29, the «Bad Nauheim leuchtet» event illuminates the city center colorfully, with shops extending hours and offering special actions.
Hanau kicks off the «Black Weekend» on November 28 and 29 with discounts. Illuminated stilt walkers perform in the pedestrian zone, alongside the traditional Christmas market at the Brothers Grimm monument. Advent markets take place in Kesselstadt and Steinheim, and the 2nd Hanau Calisthenics Championships welcome spectators on November 29.
Limburg eases access: Inner-city public transport is free on advent Fridays and Saturdays. The Christkindlmarkt starts on November 28 with live music and a Christmas rally for children. Window shoppers can win vouchers, and on December 22, the city gives away Christmas trees.
Frankfurt rings in the season with the «Großes Stadtgeläute» on November 29 at 4:30 p.m.: 50 bells from 10 churches sound until 5:00 p.m. The largest Christmas market with over 230 stalls invites visitors until December 22. A luggage bus on advent Saturdays costs 2 euros, free with an RMV ticket.
Marburg opens Christmas markets on November 28 around the town hall and Elisabeth Church. The «Marburg by Night» light festival features extended hours, a light path, and illuminated buildings.
In Wiesbaden, the Sternschnuppen-Markt with 104 stalls dominates Schlossplatz. «Wiesbaden on Ice» attracts skaters, and advent Saturdays bring free public transport. Parking garages offer discounts to reduce traffic.