When fragrant mulled wine warms your hands, the smell of freshly roasted almonds fills the air and a festive glow hangs over the entire Essen city center, it can only mean one thing: The Essen International Christmas Market has started again. From November 12 to December 23, look forward to one of the largest and most beautiful markets in the country, which will make your pre-Christmas season that much more beautiful and magical. The Christmas market stretches all over the city center, and you only have to walk a few steps to get from square to square. The centerpiece is Kennedyplatz. Here you can stroll relaxed along the stalls under a twinkling net of lights and be inspired by the variety of goods. As the name promises, the traders come from around 190 countries all over the world. There are handicrafts from Africa, Christmas decorations from Israel and jewelry from the Baltic States.