Christmas Circus Through Jan. 5 in Wiesbaden

Acrobats and clowns, dogs, tigers and ponies are among those set to entertain with their heart-stopping acts. The action unfolds in a heated big-top tent.

Irish Celtic Jan. 3 - 6 in Stuttgart

A talented tap dance ensemble reveals the magic of Irish dance through intricate choreography set to traditional folk songs and thundering dance music.

Horn Sledge Races Jan. 6 in Garmisch-Partenkirchen

Teams of four racers on old-fashioned wooden sleds compete for the fastest time down a run. As the sleds have no brakes, hair-raising spills are common.

International Dog Sled Races Jan. 11 - 12 in Unterjoch

More than 100 mushers and 500 dogs from throughout Europe converge on this village in the Allgaü region to compete in races over various distances.

The Holiday Exhibition Jan. 11 - 19 in Stuttgart

More than 2,000 exhibitors offer holiday inspiration with information about countries, destinations and all types of vacations from cycling to cruising.

Winter Lights Jan. 18 - Feb. 23 in Mannheim

As dusk falls, the pretty Luisenpark is transformed into a sparkling winter wonderland through the clever illumination of its trees, bushes and water features.

Red Wine Hike Jan. 24 in Freinsheim

The now-bare vineyards surrounding a small Pfalz village set the scene for a four-mile walk punctuated by stops for food and drink at 16 stands en route.

Mosel Wine Forum Jan. 24 - 26 in Trier

Tickets go fast to this event at which wines of the Mosel region are the stars of the show. Tastings take place within the walls of the old Roman baths.

Plan ahead

Hot Air Balloon Festival Feb. 5 - 9 at Bad Wiessee

Hot air balloons in all shapes, colors and sizes take to Bavaria’s winter skies. The event’s high point comes on Feb. 8, when illuminated balloons pierce through the darkness and huts along a lakeside promenade serve warming drinks and tasty treats.