Munich residents like to toast the new year with a Feuerzangenbowle (hot drink). Otherwise, January – in keeping with the good intentions – will be one thing above all: very sporty!
- Typically Munich
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- Concerts
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It is the last one in the city to be tasted again: The Christmas market “Münchner Feuerzangenbowle" traditionally lasts until January. At the new location behind the Schrannenhalle, bright light from the flames shoots into the night sky above a bowling kettle, it steams and smells – a particularly cosy atmosphere. At the Feuerzangenbowle, also called “Krambamboli“, a sugar loaf soaked in rum burns, caramelises and drips into the hot red wine underneath.
Münchner Feuerzangenbowle, until January 6, 2027, Blumenstrasse 22
The Oide Wiesn Bürgerball marks the start of the ball season at the Deutsches Theater. A ball for everyone who loves traditional costumes, the flair and the tradition of Munich's Oktoberfest.
Oide Wiesn Bürgerball, January 15, 2027, Deutsches Theater
Highlights of the soirée at the Deutsches Theater include the prince's waltz performed by the carnival prince and princess of the state capital Munich, dance performances by the Narrhalla Prinzengarde and the guard dance by the flag regiment. This year, the Karl Valentin Order will be awarded to the actor Christoph Maria Herbst; the laudatory speech will be given by the author and Grimme Prize winner Moritz Netenjakob.
Großer Narrhalla Ball „Soiree Münchner Leben“, January 16, 2027, Deutsches Theater
At Holiday on Ice in the Olympiahalle, the world's best skaters perform impressive formations and stunts on the ice that leave guests breathless. A magical event with thrilling music and a great light and laser show. Details of the new show are yet to be announced.
Holiday on Ice, January 6 to 10, 2027, Olympiahalle
The 30th IHF Men’s Handball World Championship will bring top-class international sport to Munich in January 2027. At the Olympiahalle, the world’s best national handball teams will face off, battling for the World Championship title with speed, dynamism and physical intensity. In addition to top-class sporting performances, the event will create a genuine World Championship atmosphere right in the heart of the city, thanks to a spectacular arena production and an international flair.
30th IHF Men’s Handball World Championship, January 13 to 18, 2027, Olympiapark
Jan Böhmermann brings “Auf! Auf! Ehrenfeld!”, a satirical musical live show, to Munich’s Olympiahalle. Combining biting social commentary, sharp-witted lyrics and elaborately staged live music, the show blends political satire with a concert atmosphere and a spectacular stage show. Together with the 15-piece Rundfunk-Tanzorchester Ehrenfeld, the result is an evening full of humour, surprises and orchestral energy, uniquely combining entertainment with current affairs.
Jan Böhmermann & das Rundfunk-Tanzorchester Ehrenfeld, January 22, 2027, Olympiahalle
Already warmed up in the shower and ready for an unforgettable musical evening? ‘SingAlong’, the big sing-along event, invites you to a shared experience where hundreds of people sing familiar and popular hits. The lyrics are clearly displayed on a large screen, and each event has a special theme – from 90s classics to festive Christmas carols. The carefully curated song selection and on-site moderation guarantee a unique sing-along experience for all tastes.
SingAlong, Date to be confirmed, Isarpost
“The Nutcracker” is one of the world’s most famous classical ballets and has been enchanting audiences for generations with its magical winter atmosphere. At the Prinzregententheater, the International Festival Ballet’s production brings Tchaikovsky’s world-famous music to life, combined with opulent costumes, impressive choreography and poetic stage designs. Between the Snowflake Waltz, the Sugar Plum Fairy and imaginative dream worlds, a festive stage experience unfolds.
The Nutcracker, January 7 to 10, 2027, Prinzregententheater
James Bond fans shouldn’t miss this for anything: “The Sound of James Bond” brings the legendary soundtracks from the most famous secret agent series in film history to the stage of the Isarphilharmonie. Accompanied by a large orchestra, a band and vocal soloists, classics from Goldfinger, Skyfall and Casino Royale unfold their full sonic power, blending suspense, elegance and Hollywood glamour. Presented by Dietmar Wunder – the German voice of Daniel Craig – the concert combines symphonic film music with the iconic atmosphere of the 007 world.
The Sound of James Bond, January 8 and 9, 2027, Isarphilharmonie
The new production “Circus” at the GOP Theatre combines modern variety art with spectacular acrobatics, humour and atmospheric stage design. International performers present breathtaking aerial acts, dynamic choreography and creative show elements that blend contemporary circus with entertainment. In the stylish ambience of the variety theatre, music, lighting design and artistry merge into an immersive experience full of energy, elegance and surprising moments. The production combines classic circus aesthetics with modern variety art, creating an evening full of wonder and emotion.
Circus, until January 17, 2027, GOP Munich
From wedding dresses and suits to decoration ideas, the ‘Hochzeitstage München’ trade fair offers bridal couples the opportunity to find everything their hearts desire and brings together a large number of exhibitors under one roof to present the latest trends and products relating to weddings.
Hochzeitstage München, January 16 and 17, 2027, MOC
In “Detektive”, Dirk von Lowtzow, singer and co-founder of the band Tocotronic, blends literature, music and art appreciation into a personal evening’s entertainment that straddles the line between a reading and a concert. With texts on contemporary art, autobiographical observations and songs spanning more than three decades of Tocotronic, the result is an atmospheric blend of pop culture, humour and intellectual reflection.
Dirk von Lowtzow, January 17, 2027, Volkstheater
Lars Eidinger explores the dark and rebellious poetry of Brecht’s “Hauspostille”. At the Prinzregententheater, he combines reading, music and performance to create an intense evening’s entertainment. Accompanied musically by Hans-Jörn Brandenburg, the result is an atmospheric blend of melancholy, provocation and black humour. At the Prinzregententheater, Eidinger brings Brecht’s texts to the stage as a powerful Gesamtkunstwerk, lending the expressionist poetry a modern, haunting presence.
Lars Eidinger, January 23, 2027, Prinzregententheater
Since the 1990s, Die Fantastischen Vier have been among the defining figures of German-language hip-hop. With songs such as “Die Da!” and “MfG”, Smudo, Thomas D, Michi Beck and And.Ypsilon have made music history and have continually evolved their sound over the decades. Blending rap, funk and electronic influences, the popular German band creates an atmosphere that appeals across generations and underlines their special place in the German music scene. In January 2027, they’ll be coming to Munich for two dates as part of their “Der letzte Bus” tour!
Die Fantastischen Vier, January 17 and 18, 2027, Olympiahalle
André Rieu is one of the world’s most successful classical entertainers and has been delighting audiences of millions for decades with his lavish concerts. Together with his Johann Strauss Orchestra, the Dutch violinist performs classical music with great flair, charm and emotionally charged stage performances. The repertoire ranges from famous waltzes and opera melodies to film music, evergreens and popular classical hits.
André Rieu, January 15, 2027, Olympiahalle
You can find a well curated selection of concerts in Munich on Munich - City of Music.
The ‘Stonehenge’ exhibition is dedicated to one of the most fascinating monuments in human history, bringing the famous sacred site in south-west England to the Archäologische Staatssammlung in a comprehensive international exhibition. Around 600 original objects, replicas and immersive media installations offer insights into the world of early farming cultures and the latest archaeological findings concerning the enigmatic stone circle.
Stonehenge, until August 29, 2027, State Archaeological Collection
“Long Story Short” runs until the end of January 2027, telling a story of contemporary art from the 1960s to the present day through works from the Brandhorst Collection. Each room will serve as a separate exhibition in its own right: from Arte Povera to monographic presentations, and from formal-aesthetic discourses to socio-political themes. Never-before-seen works and new acquisitions enter into dialogue with the museum’s iconic pieces, offering fresh perspectives on the collection, which now comprises over 1,600 works.
Long Story Short, until January 31, 2027, Museum Brandhorst
The exhibition “Barcelona Moderna” is dedicated to Barcelona’s cultural heyday around 1900 and explores the development of Catalan Modernisme across architecture, painting and design. Around 140 paintings, prints, pieces of furniture and architectural models showcase the creative milieu of artists such as Antoni Gaudí and the young Pablo Picasso, bringing to life the social transformation of the burgeoning metropolis. The Kunsthalle München combines art, urban history and cultural atmosphere to create an impressive journey through time to the modern Barcelona of the turn of the century.
Barcelona Moderna. From Gaudí to Picasso, until February 21, 2027, Kunsthalle München
Cavalluna’s winter family show transports young and old alike to a magical fantasy world full of horses, music and impressive stage effects. The story centres on a boy named Robert, who must set out on an adventurous journey to reclaim his imagination. Amidst majestic horses, enchanting creatures and humorous characters, the show combines equestrian artistry, drama and music into an emotional experience for the whole family. The Showpalast Munich is transformed into a festively staged winter wonderland with spectacular lighting design, a large LED backdrop and elaborate special effects.
WinterWünscheLand, until January 10, 2027, Showpalast Munich
The musical “Conni” brings the popular children’s book character back to the stage in the Werksviertel Mitte district, using plenty of music, humour and endearing characters to depict everyday family life from a child’s perspective. Together with her friends, Conni embarks on exciting adventures centred on school, friendship and growing up, inviting children to sing along, join in and share a laugh. On 23 January 2027, there will be two performances – one at 1.30 pm and one at 5 pm.
Conni – The Musical, January 23, 2027, WERK7 theatre
The “Carnival of the Animals” brings the famous musical fantasy world to the stage of the Gasteig HP8 as an entertaining family concert. Amidst majestic lions, elegant swans and playful animal characters, a humorous interplay of classical music, storytelling and a lively stage atmosphere unfolds. This child-friendly production invites visitors of all ages on a musical journey full of wit, charm and discoveries.
The Carnival of the Animals, January 31, 2027, Hall X at Gasteig HP8
Wesslinger See is the smallest lake in the Fünfseenland (Five Lakes' District) to the south of Munich. It is often sarcastically referred to as the “Wesslinger Badewanne” (Wesslinger Bathtub). Because it has no streams running in or out of it, it is usually the first lake in the region to freeze over. This tends to coincide perfectly with the new year, which has resulted in a wonderful tradition. On New Year’s Eve, the locals take their first steps onto the lake to set off fireworks before returning with their ice skates the next morning.
The jetty next to the kiosk is the best place to access the ice. The popular small fast-food stand is open in good weather over the winter, supplying skaters with hot punch and sausages. From Marienplatz, Wessling is around 35 minutes away on the S-Bahn (suburban railway). It's then just a short walk from the station to the banks of the lake. If you’re worried about the strength of the ice, stick close to the banks where it tends to be thicker and less likely to break. The rescue organisation Deutsche Lebensrettungsgesellschaft recommends staying off the ice unless it is over 15 centimetres thick.
As soon as the Nymphenburger Kanal freezes over (normally in January), it's time for one of Munich’s favourite winter sports to make its comeback: Bavarian curling (also known as ice stock sport). It doesn't take long to learn the rules; they are pretty similar to bowls. A target known as the Daube is placed on the ice. Each player then launches their ice stock. Simply swing it back gently, take a step forwards and let go. The player whose stock finishes closest to the target wins. Ideally, you should aim to shoot your opponents’ stocks out of the way.
Pitches, including the target and ice stocks, are available to rent right next to the canal. Mulled wine stands are on hand to help you get your eye in. Tip: The thickness of the Nymphenburg ice can vary; the shallow waters in the circular royal gardens freeze quicker than the slightly deeper canal. Services, such as the skating club (on +49 (0) 89 50 93 36), provide updates on the conditions of the ice.
When Jack Frost is tapping on the windows, there is nothing better than warming up with a nice hot bowl of soup. One of the best spots for soup is Münchner Suppenküche at Viktualienmarkt. Its menu includes a number of traditional dishes from the Alpine region, such as Leberknödelsuppe (liver dumpling soup), Saueres Lüngerl mit Semmelknödeln (lights with dumplings) or Viennese goulash soup. Vegetarian options are also available. Fresh bread is served as an accompaniment. Alternatively, pay a visit to Gusto between Arnulfstrasse and Rotkreuzplatz in western Munich. The menu changes on a daily basis. If you're a fan of tomato soup, then we recommend the Bloody Mary with celery, coriander and cinnamon.
When the snow falls in Munich, it's time for a winter walk. We present the nicest routes, from the Englischer Garten (park) to the Isar – and at the same time the appropriate refreshment to warm up culinarily.
A detailed calendar of events can be found here.
