Beautiful bored people of Munich, if you’re anything like us, you’re probably already half-infused with warm, spicy Glühwein by mid-November. It’s fine. It’s winter. It’s tradition.
But here’s a secret: there’s a lesser-known winter festival where you can try 35+ Glühwein creations. From fancy wine infused favourites, berry kissed brews, chocolate packed concoctions, even a glittery hot aperol.
Welcome to the Weihnachtszauberwald Bogenhausen: Munich’s most wonderfully odd, weirdly charming, surprisingly delightful Glühwein Festival. It’s strange. It’s cozy. It’s festive. And it’s very worth the detour.
Glühwein Festival At A Glance
Weihnachtszauberwald Bogenhausen 2025/2026: Essential Info
- 📅 Dates: 13 November 2025 – 11 January 2026 (Closed on 24 & 31 December)
- 📍 Location: Englschalkinger Straße / Cosimastraße (directly at Cosimabad)
- 💸 Entry: Free, you only pay for food, rides, and drinks.
Opening Hours 2025/2026:
- Mon–Wed: 15:00–21:00
- Thu–Sat: 15:00–22:00
- Sun + Holidays: 13:00–21:00
Best time to visit: Evenings for atmosphere, afternoons for calmer crowds.
TL;DR
Pressed for time? More of a visual learner? No worries! Check out our Reel summary for the quick scoop!
What Is the Weihnachtszauberwald Bogenhausen?
In a city overflowing with Christmas markets, from the classic Marienplatz lights to the sprawling energy of Tollwood, the Weihnachtszauberwald Bogenhausen quietly brews its own winter magic. Think forest-themed lights, two big warm tents, rides for kids, food stalls, and a frankly astonishing number of Glühwein varieties.
It’s not your shopping-heavy market. It’s a local, quirky, Glühwein-forward winter experience tucked away in peaceful Bogenhausen. If you want cozy chaos without the city-centre crowds, this is your spot.
What You’ll Find at Weihnachtszauberwald
When we visited midday, heaters hummed, lights flickered in the trees, and cinnamon scented the air. You’ll find:
- Two heated tents pouring Glühwein in dozens of variations
- A children’s Christmas train and rides
- A handful of food stalls for winter snacks
- Some curious crafts + quirky art pieces for sale
This is not a big shopping market. It’s more about sipping, wandering, laughing, and embracing winter’s weirder side. (tbh its one of our favourites for that exact reason).
Should You Visit? (Short Answer: Yes, If You’re Fun.)
Let’s set the scene: Latino pop from the early 2000s thumps through the speakers. A disco ball throws sparkles across inflatable Santas. Red café tables glow under fairy lights. A few slightly questionable animatronic decorations blink at you.
It’s odd. It’s kitschy. It’s fantastic, especially once the evening crowd rolls in.
If you like your Christmas experiences polished and traditional, this might not be your match. But if you want a fun, local, cozy, slightly surreal Glühwein adventure… you’re in the right forest.
The Glühwein Menu: 35+ Wild & Warming Drinks
The star of the show? The 35+ varieties of Glühwein and hot drinks on offer. Here are some crowd (and personal) favorites:
- 🍒 Kirschmagie: Morello cherries + 13% alcohol. Tart, sweet, dangerously smooth
- 🍾 Sir Quickly: A elegant and cozily smooth Silvaner Glühwein
- 🌶️Chilly Willy: Spicy, sweet mix of red glühwein and chilli. Surprisingly good
- 🍫 Tote Tante: Hot chocolate + rum with a darkly funny name
- 🔥 Hot Daiquiri: Yes, it exists. Yes, try it
Reality check? Many of them taste more similar than different, but sampling them is half the fun.
Final Sip: Should You Go?
If you want Munich’s traditional Christmas vibes, Marienplatz or the Residenzmarkt might treat you better.
But if you want something quirky, local, playful, and casually chaotic, the Weihnachtszauberwald Bogenhausen might just become your new December tradition.
And yes, the silly named Glühwein list is worth the trip alone.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Weihnachtszauberwald Bogenhausen free?
Yes! Entry is completely free. You only pay for drinks, food, and rides.
Where exactly is the Glühwein Festival located?
It takes place directly at Cosimabad in Bogenhausen, at the corner of Englschalkinger Straße and Cosimastraße.
How many Glühwein varieties do they offer?
The 2025 festival features more than 35 unique Glühwein and hot drink options.
Is it family-friendly?
Yes! there are kids’ rides, a small train, and family-friendly daytime hours. Evenings tend to feel more adult-oriented.
Is Weihnachtszauberwald a good alternative to Munich’s main Christmas markets?
Absolutely, especially if you’re looking for something more relaxed, less crowded, and more quirky than the city-centre markets.
What’s the best time to go?
Evenings offer peak atmosphere. Weekday afternoons are great for families or calmer visits.
Stay in Munich’s Loop
For more winter tips, hidden events, and everyday Munich magic, follow us on Instagram: @boredinmunich. That’s where the cozy, quirky, local fun lands first.
