The Darmstadt Christmas Market is located on the market square, around the castle and on the Luisenplatz. The lights from the Residential Palace, Old City Hall, Christmas tree and sparkling Christmas pyramid, are sure to get you in the mood for Christmas. The market’s festively decorated stalls feature specialities from Darmstadt’s many twin cities such as handicrafts from Liepaja in Latvia, Hungarian Lángos and cheese from Swiss Saanen. Be sure to try at least one of the many mulled wines on offer, made from red or white wine, honey and apples, or even ‘mulled beer’. For some Christmas shopping, you'll find everything you need in the 500 shops in Darmstadt's city centre. And for special gifts, have a look at the arts and crafts stalls on the Friedensplatz on the weekends, with jewellery, glass works, handmade soap or pottery on display. Christmas atmosphere is provided at the market square, where music is played on the open stage, and the 6th of December sees a special visit from Santa Claus as he arrives in his carriage.