The Frankfurt Christmas market is not only one of the oldest Christmas markets in Germany, but also one of the most visited. And the people of Frankfurt? They like their Christmas market, which they always enjoy visiting. For adults, the market has a lot to offer with mulled wine, all kinds of gastronomic and sales stands. For children there are merry-go-rounds and sweets - but otherwise rather little. This is changing this year, because 2019 celebrates a project premiere, which, if it is well received, will make the Christmas market visit in the future also for children to an absolutely magical experience.
From Saturday, December 7, to Sunday, December 22, the first Christmas market for children invites in the Ratskeller in the Römer. Here the little ones can tinker, bake and play daily from 11 am to 7 pm. For Lord Mayor Peter Feldmann it was no question that he would be the patron and that the city would make the Ratskeller available free of charge: "With the Ratskeller we have found a good location. We are bringing the children into the Römer - the town hall belongs to everyone. Here, children and adults can relax from the crowds at the stands outside. The whole family is welcome!"
The entrance is free, however, there are four actions, for each of which a participant fee of 5 € is charged to be able to cover material and personnel costs: So children can bake cookies, decorate the finest gingerbread from the Odenwald, dip candles in colored wax or paint Christmas decorations made of plywood such as small sledges or fir trees. While these festive activities cost something and are primarily aimed at children between the ages of 5 and 12, there is also a nice selection of building blocks, rocking horses and many painting and crafting utensils in the adjoining room, which even younger visitors will enjoy. And parents can treat themselves to a little time out with pretzels, sausages, coffee and cake.
The family-friendly concept comes from Michael Paris of the Riederwald Adventure Playground Association. The largest children's culture organizer in the Rhine-Main region operates three pedagogically supervised adventure playgrounds, the city's playmobiles and pirate boats, and is also behind many children's festivals from carnivals to open-air flea markets. "It's been a dream of mine for a long time, I'm excited that we're finally going to be able to launch in 2019!" said Paris, who presented his concept at a press conference in the Ratskeller.
But Paris also stressed that it's a place for families and that it's not a childcare service. The Children's Christmas Market is a place for little ones to experience together with their parents. It is also important to know that strollers are unfortunately not allowed inside the Ratskeller. This is solely for space and safety reasons.
But otherwise, the Ratskeller has everything you need for the craft, baking and play stations. That's why Michael Paris is also very grateful to have this place at his disposal. For Thomas Feda, Managing Director of Tourismus und Congress GmbH, this is a welcome addition to Frankfurt's Christmas market: "Christmas is a celebration for the whole family. That's why I'm particularly pleased that the Children's Christmas Market will be adding many hands-on activities to the diverse offerings of our Frankfurt Christmas Market for the first time this year, making a visit to the Christmas Market all the more of an experience for young and old alike!"
"I am sure that we will see shining children's eyes and lots of joy in the run-up to Christmas," said Lord Mayor Feldmann, wishing the event a good start. We agree.
For all further info, please visit: www.abenteuerspielplatz.de
