Markets do not come with more history or more celebration than the Auer Dult fair in Munich. In 1796 Elector Karl Theodor allowed the Munich suburb of Au the right to hold a fair (Dult) twice a year. The Auer Dult was born. Since 1905 the fair has systematically been taking place three times a year over 9 days – with exception of the mid and post war years of 1943-1946.

The Auer Dult is nowadays considered to be the largest crockery market in Europe, welcoming 300,000 visitors in the course of the year. However, one of the main features of the Auer Dult is its flea market. It is a huge jumble sale that reminds the Münchner Flohmarkt auf der Theresienwiese, a gathering of vendors and shoppers keen for a taste of the old days and immersing themselves in nostalgia. The vendors have clear delight in the goods they have for sale, and despite the crowds they are keen to engage with visitors and share the stories locked up in their goods. With over 300 stalls, shoppers can certainly snag a bargain at the Auer Dult flea market, and collectors can also come up trumps with some fantastic antiques and collectables to be found.

With so much to choose from at the Auer Dult, it is obvious why visitors will come again and again during the 9 day long fair. It is the only way to make sure you have had a good look at all the antiques and curios available! Visitors will find rare books, haberdashery goods, crockery, silverware, glassware, kitchen utensils, vintage design furniture, traditional German beer mugs, old prints, household items, ornaments, toys, stamps, coins, war memorabilia and so much more. Of course, traditional Bavarian Lederhosen and lady’s dirndl can also be found here.

Almost as important as finding a hidden gem or getting a good bargain, is to give some local culinary specialities a shot. Plenty of stalls at the Auer Dult sell fresh food and drinks: of course Bavarian beer, but also fruit juices and fresh coffee, which all go well with traditional Bavarian snacks such as barbecued sausages, chicken, and Steckerlfisch (fish-on-a-stick)!

The whole family will be well entertained at the Auer Dult. Some of the entertainment includes horseback riding, puppet shows, a whole fairground to suit kids of all ages, a merry-go-round and circus performers including acrobats and clowns. It does feel a little like stepping back in time when you are part of this fair, and that is something that can be appreciated by all in these hectic times.