Yes, it is that time of year again. When artisans sell their delicate creations as well as craftspeople selling baskets, ceramics, pewter figures, blown glass, wooden crafts, silk paintings and so much more. This is my list of Easter markets (plus a few unique markets or fests) for the Rhine Main region:
* 11-12 Mar. Easter Market, Eberbach Monastery
* 18-19 Mar. Easter Market, Frankfurt Dominikaner Cloister
* 25-26 Mar. Easter Market, Michelstadt
* 31 Mar. -2 Apr. Easter Markt, Wiesbaden
* 1-2 Apr. Historic Easter Market, Ronneburg Castle
* 1-2 Apr. Spring Market, Seligenstadt (Shopping Sunday)
* 2 Apr. Fabric Market, Wiesbaden
* 8-9 Apr. Easter Market, Hessen Park
* 8-9 Apr. Hexen Market, Idstein (Witches Market)
* 8-9 Apr. Historic Easter Market, Ronneburg Castle
* 21-24 Apr. Spring Festival, Wiesbaden
For the indoor markets, Eberbach is #1, with the Dominkaner Cloister in Frankfurt a close 2nd, though Eberbach has the coolest setting. Neither one of these are child friendly due to the extreme delicacy of the eggs on offer. Some can cost up to 300-400 € but you can also find eggs for 10€.
Take the hourly train from Frankfurt to Eltville, then bus #5 up to Eberbach. The Hessen ticket is good for this trip.
Ronneburg Castle is an original Staufen castle located near Gelnhausen & Büdingen and is rather tough to get to by public transportation. Their Christmas market is now one of my favorites so am looking forward to their historic Easter Market. Activities for the kids are available here.
The Witches Market in Idstein is a favorite of mine. The town is quaint and pretty and this medieval fest is one of the larger ones in the area. Lots of activities for the little ones at this fest too. If you go, you can climb the Hexen Turm for a great view of the Taunus mountains. It is easy to get to from Frankfurt by S-bahn. A group day ticket will cost you 28.30€.
The Easter market in Wiesbaden is outside on the pedestrian zone and can be fun for families. The fabric market and shopping Sunday add to the fest.
Seligenstadt is another quaint, pretty town belonging to the Half-timbered route. Ancient basilica and monastery to visit.