When the lights go on at the Theresienwiese and the scent of mulled wine and spices fills the cold air, a very special time begins in Munich: the Winter-Tollwood.
It is not a classic Christmas market, but a cultural festival that combines creativity, sustainability and joie de vivre – in the middle of the city and yet with its own world full of music, art and encounters.
A festival with attitude
The Winter-Tollwood is more than just glittering lights and mulled wine. It stands for an idea – for sustainability, environmental awareness and social dialogue.
Every year, the Theresienwiese transforms into a colorful tent area full of life. Between fairy lights and art installations, you will meet musicians, acrobats, artisans and connoisseurs from all over the world.
The motto for 2025: “Shaping the future – with heart and mind”. It sums up what Tollwood is all about: a festival that combines joy and responsibility.
Market of Ideas
Instead of mass-produced goods and glittery kitsch, Tollwood focuses on craftsmanship, creativity and fair products. The “Market of Ideas” offers handmade jewelry, fashion, decorations and gift ideas, all of which have one thing in common: sustainability.
Many of the exhibitors work with recycled materials, regional fabrics or fair trade products. This makes strolling through the tents an inspiring journey of discovery – perfect for finding special Christmas gifts.
Organic cuisine from all over the world
The Winter-Tollwood is also unique from a culinary perspective. Whether Indian curry, Bavarian delicacies, vegan burgers or sweet crêpes – here you can taste diversity. And the best thing is: everything is organic.
On cold days, a mulled wine, a cocoa with spices or a homemade punch will warm you up – preferably under the sparkling garlands of the “Food Market of Nations”.
For many Munich residents, Tollwood has long been a tradition: strolling through the streets after work, meeting friends, eating something – and simply celebrating life.
Music, theater and magic
Tollwood wouldn’t be Tollwood without its stages. Every evening there is live music, performances and shows – often free of charge.
Between fire shows, street theater and light art, the festival becomes a place full of fantasy.
International artists and musicians provide amazement in the large Spiegelzelt, while bands from Munich and the world perform outside on the stage.
Sustainability you can feel
Tollwood has been consistently committed to environmental and climate protection for years:
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100% green electricity
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No plastic dishes
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Organic gastronomy
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Recycling concepts for waste and building materials
The festival wants to show that culture can also be green – and that sustainability is fun. This attitude runs through every detail, from the decorations to the menu.
Celebrate New Year’s Eve at Tollwood
A special highlight every year is the New Year’s Eve party:
Live bands, DJs, culinary delights and midnight atmosphere under the open sky – without exaggerated exclusivity, but with real festive spirit. When the new year begins, Munich residents and guests dance together into the new year.
Visitor tips
Location: Theresienwiese Munich
Period: November 25 to December 23, 2025
New Year’s Eve party: December 31, 2025
Admission: Access to the festival grounds is free; tickets are required for individual shows.
Directions: The best way to get there is by subway (U4/U5 – “Theresienwiese” stop) or by bicycle.
Tip: A visit in the early evening hours is particularly beautiful – when the sun goes down and the lights immerse the festival in a sea of colors.
Conclusion
The Winter-Tollwood is Munich’s alternative answer to the classic Christmas market. It’s not just about consumption, but about encounters, creativity and joie de vivre.
Anyone who loves the cold season and is looking for culture, music and sustainable enjoyment will be happy at Tollwood.
A festival that shows: Munich can be colorful, conscious and magical at the same time.