Bochumer Weihnacht
Visitors can wander through around 200 market stalls, artisan craft huts, and a medieval market surrounding the Pauluskirche featuring historical crafts and performers. Family attractions include a fairy tale forest, children's carousels, curling lanes, and large illuminated animal sculptures. A signature highlight is the Flying Santa soaring overhead in his sleigh while sharing a Christmas story.
What to Expect
Features the Flying Santa soaring high above Dr.-Ruer-Platz.
Event Details
Ages
All ages
Neighborhood
City Center
Timed Entry
No
Organizer
Bochum Marketing GmbH
Food & Drink
Market stalls offer festive treats and culinary specialties, while the medieval market serves tavern drinks and rustic fare.
Local Insight & Ratings
Family Friendly
Best For
Families and christmas-market browsers
Vibe
Festive and lively
Energy Level
Moderate
Photo Friendly
High
Weather Sensitivity
Moderate
Location
Know Before You Go
- Hours: Daily 11–22 Uhr (core hours 12–21 Uhr); the Flying Santa is daily at 17 and 19 Uhr, with an additional show Friday, Saturday, and Sunday. Other listed program times: December 15 at 18 Uhr and December 2 at 15:30 Uhr.
- Parking: Über 5.500 Parkplätze stehen in Parkhäusern zur Verfügung; außerdem gibt es einen kostenlosen Busparkplatz am Castroper Platz.
- Accessibility: The Christmas market is largely barrier-free, accessible for wheelchair users, and equipped with barrier-free restrooms.
Tips & Advice
- Gather on Dr.-Ruer-Platz in front of the Sparkasse for the Flying Santa, and come on a weekend to see him rope down onto the stage.
- Download the free Bochum App, whose Hüttenfinder takes you straight to your favourite stall and lets you follow the Flying Santa.
- Pick up a Weihnachtspass for deals at market stalls, including half-price offers and two-for-one specials.
- Bring a card if you plan to stop at the Bochumer Weihnachtszentrale, since it only accepts card payments.
- Park in a city-centre garage, since more than 5,500 spaces are a few minutes' walk from the market and many Bochum shops cover parking fees.
Special Events & Promotions
- Photo walk over the market with photographer Dennis Brögelmann on December 12 and 19.
- Christmas raffle on December 2 at the Sparkassen-Weihnachtsbühne.
- 'Konzertreise durch Europa' concert in the Pauluskirche on December 18.
- 'Klassik in Paulus' with James Maddox & friends in the Pauluskirche on December 21.
- Weihnachtspass deals at market stalls, such as 50% off or two-for-one.
Quick Actions
Frequently Asked Questions
Where can I see the Flying Santa?
On Dr.-Ruer-Platz in front of the Sparkasse. He flies twice a day along a 125-meter wire and tells a new Christmas story each year. There's an extra show on Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays. On weekends he ropes down onto the Christmas stage after his flight.
What is there for kids?
Children's carousels, ice skating and sing-alongs. In the fairy tale forest (Märchenwald), little ones can listen to stories from faraway worlds. There are also large light sculptures and a medieval market.
Are there free shows?
Yes. The Rentier Lounge has free concerts, readings and more. The Sparkassen-Weihnachtsbühne has its own stage program.
Can we play Eisstockschießen or book a tour?
Yes. You can book a curling (Eisstockschießen) session on the Boulevard with friends. Guided tours can be booked for groups.
How do I find a particular stall?
Use the Hüttenfinder. It's also in the free Bochum App, which tracks the Flying Santa and has local recipes.
More Christmas Events Near Bochum
More Christmas Events near Bochum
Always check the official website for the most current information.
We've done our best to keep details up-to-date, but event schedules, prices, and policies can change. For the latest updates, please visit the official website or contact the organizers directly. Christmas Events Near Me is an independent guide and isn't affiliated with the events we list.