Essen Christmas Events & Things to Do 2025
Your complete guide to the best christmas events in Essen and surrounding areas
Essen unveils the holiday season across the city center and Zollverein with the International Christmas Market Essen, Zollverein Ice Rink and WDR 2 Weihnachtswunder creating a lively festive atmosphere. Holiday lights and seasonal events illuminate the city’s industrial heritage and shopping streets. Visitors can enjoy holiday activities including parades, concerts and family-friendly attractions that celebrate local crafts and cuisine, making the festive season a vibrant mix of culture and community fun.
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Christmas Markets
49 eventsAward-winning sustainable Christmas market with interactive escape game.
Christmas Shows
27 eventsA unique retelling of "A Christmas Carol" driven by love.
Christmas Parties
8 eventsNew Year's Eve package with gourmet dining and celebration.
Other Christmas Activities
12 eventsIce skating amidst historic industrial architecture.
Editor's Picks (6)
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International Christmas Market Essen
Award-winning sustainable Christmas market with interactive escape game.
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New Year's Eve Celebration in Witten
(Witten)
New Year's Eve package with gourmet dining and celebration.
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New Year's Eve Celebration at Maritim Airport Hotel Düsseldorf
(Düsseldorf)
All-inclusive New Year's Eve party with top tribute acts
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Cranger Weihnachtszauber
(Herne)
Europe's largest mobile Christmas theme market.
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Zollverein Ice Rink
Ice skating amidst historic industrial architecture.
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Mülheimer Schiffsweihnacht
(Mülheim an der Ruhr)
Christmas market on ships with illuminated riverbank.
This Week / Coming Up (6)
Christmas Lights Near Essen
Additional holiday activities and unique Christmas experiences in Essen.
Essener Lichtwochen
Experience the magic of the Essener Lichtwochen, a beloved tradition illuminating the city...
View full details →Christmas Giving Opportunities Near Essen
Give back this holiday season with volunteering and charitable opportunities in Essen.
WDR 2 Weihnachtswunder Essen
Experience the 'WDR 2 Weihnachtswunder' live from Essen this holiday season. Tune in...
View full details →View Our Interactive Map for More Events Around Essen
Discover thousands of christmas events across the country
Also Near Essen
Gelsenkirchen
- Rockin' Around the Christmas Tree Concert
- Christmas On Air - The Christmas Show with Jan Malte Andresen
- The Dark Tenor - Weihnachtszauber
Bottrop
- Adventsmarkt am Wasserschloss Raesfeld
- Große Silvester-Party am 31.12.2025
- Bottroper Weihnachtszauber 2025
Muelheim
See all in Muelheim →Oberhausen
- New Year's Eve 2025 Party at Kulttempel
- Westfield Centro Christmas Market
- Gina's Christmas Comedy Show Live!
Essen Christmas FAQ
The Essen Light Festival and the main Christmas market at Kennedyplatz are the city’s biggest annual Christmas events, drawing visitors with spectacular light art and festive vendor stalls.
Essen’s holiday traditions include the integration of contemporary light art in public spaces during the Christmas season, highlighted by the Essen Light Festival, which combines modern installations with classic festive elements.
The city center around Kennedyplatz and several nearby neighborhoods are known for their impressive Christmas light displays, offering both public installations and charming residential decorations.
Christmas markets are primarily located at Kennedyplatz, with additional artisan markets and craft fairs scattered throughout Essen and its surrounding neighborhoods, showcasing local makers and vendors.
Enjoying the free light displays during the Essen Light Festival and exploring neighborhood holiday lights are great budget-friendly activities. Many markets also offer free entry, allowing visitors to browse vendor stalls without cost.
Families can enjoy festive rides, craft workshops, and interactive light installations at the Essen Light Festival and Christmas markets, providing engaging activities suitable for children of all ages.