Essen Christmas Markets 2025

Discover 49 verified christmas markets in Essen and nearby areas.

Welcome to the Essen Christmas markets guide, your go-to source for festive shopping and seasonal cheer. Essen Christmas markets bring together a variety of artisan vendors and cozy stalls that celebrate local crafts and holiday traditions.

The main market at Kennedyplatz is a centerpiece near Essen, known for its twinkling canopy of lights and inviting atmosphere. You’ll also find beloved neighborhood markets offering unique gifts and seasonal treats.

Inside this guide, you’ll find details on free and ticketed markets, vendor stalls, and family-friendly activities. Explore these holiday markets to enjoy the best of Essen’s festive season.

All Christmas Markets Around Essen

Internationale Kerstmarkt Essen

$$

Award-winning sustainable Christmas market

Immerse yourself in the enchanting atmosphere of the Internationale Kerstmarkt Essen, running from November 14 to December 23, 2025. This award-winning sustainable Christmas market offers a magical experience with festive lights, international vendors, and a special "WDR 2 Weihnachtswunder" event....

Christmas MarketHoliday MarketFestive Food

International Christmas Market Essen

$

Award-winning sustainable Christmas market with interactive escape game.

Immerse yourself in the festive magic of the International Christmas Market Essen, running from November 14 to December 23, 2025. This acclaimed market, recognized as Europe's Best Sustainable Christmas Market, offers a dazzling array of over 100 vendors, seasonal delicacies,...

Christmas MarketHoliday MarketFestive Food

Weihnachtsmarkt Essen 2025

$$

Award-winning sustainable international Christmas market with extensive light displays.

Essen transforms into a winter wonderland for the 2025 Christmas season with multiple festive markets. The International Christmas Market in the city center, a multi-award-winning event, features over 170 stalls from around 20 countries offering unique gifts and global culinary...

Christmas MarketHoliday MarketFestive Food

49th Steeler Christmas Market

Essen, NW
$

Europe's tallest rotating Christmas tree

The 49th Steeler Christmas Market transforms Essen-Steele into a festive wonderland. Wander through streets filled with the aromas of mulled wine and gingerbread, browsing stalls offering unique products and delicious treats. Enjoy live entertainment on the main stage and marvel...

Christmas MarketHoliday MarketFestive Food

Gelsenkirchen Christmas Markets

Gelsenkirchen
$$

Multiple Christmas markets across Gelsenkirchen districts

Gelsenkirchen comes alive with festive cheer as multiple Christmas markets pop up across the city in 2024. From the twinkling "Funkelgasse" in Buer to the bustling Heinrich-König-Platz in the city center, discover a variety of handcrafted gifts, seasonal treats, and...

Christmas MarketHoliday Markets And ShoppingFamily Friendly

Mülheimer Weihnachtstreff 2025

Mülheim an der Ruhr 6 mi from Essen
Free

Cozy Christmas market with traditional treats and a festive tree.

Experience the Mülheimer Weihnachtstreff, a charming Christmas market perfect for a festive break. Indulge in traditional treats like Glühwein, Reibekuchen, and crêpes while enjoying the twinkling lights of the Christmas tree. A delightful stop for holiday shoppers and families alike.

Christmas MarketFestive FoodHoliday Tradition

Bottroper Weihnachtszauber 2025

Bottrop 6 mi from Essen
$$

Festive winter village with ice stock sport and artisanal market.

The Bottroper Weihnachtszauber transforms the city center into a magical winter village from mid-November to late December. This beloved event offers a unique atmosphere with traditional crafts, festive food, and a lively stage program. Visitors can enjoy ice stock sports,...

Christmas MarketHoliday MarketIce Skating

Altstadt-Adventsmarkt Mülheim 2025

Mülheim an der Ruhr 6 mi from Essen
$

Community-focused market with handmade goods from local residents.

Experience the cozy charm of the Altstadt-Adventsmarkt in Mülheim. This beloved market features numerous stalls where local residents showcase their handmade crafts, decorations, and unique gifts. Savor traditional festive treats like mulled wine, hot chocolate, and bratwurst while soaking in...

Christmas MarketHoliday MarketFamily Friendly

Mülheimer Weihnachtstreff

Mülheim an der Ruhr 6 mi from Essen
$$

Traditional Christmas market with seasonal treats.

Immerse yourself in the festive spirit at the Mülheim Christmas Market. This charming event offers a delightful array of stalls featuring unique handmade crafts, artisanal products, and seasonal treats. Savor traditional Christmas delicacies and warm beverages while exploring the vibrant...

Christmas MarketHoliday MarketFestive Food

Christmas Gathering Mülheim an der Ruhr

Mülheim an der Ruhr, NW 6 mi from Essen
$$

Cozy, familial Christmas market with diverse culinary delights.

The Christmas Gathering in Mülheim an der Ruhr transforms the city center into a festive wonderland from late November to December 23rd. Located on Schloßstraße, this charming market offers a delightful array of traditional mulled wine, hot cocoa, savory snacks,...

Christmas MarketHoliday MarketFestive Food

Westfield Centro Christmas Market

Oberhausen 7 mi from Essen
$$

European-style Christmas market with diverse stalls and family attractions.

Immerse yourself in the festive spirit at the Westfield Centro Christmas Market. Discover a magical wonderland filled with over 100 stalls offering unique handmade crafts, delightful Christmas decorations, and a wide selection of festive foods and warm beverages. Children will...

Christmas MarketHoliday MarketSanta Visits

Altstadt-Adventsmarkt Mülheim an der Ruhr

Mülheim an der Ruhr, NW 7 mi from Essen
$$

Artisanal market in historic old town alleys

Experience the magic of the Altstadt-Adventsmarkt in Mülheim an der Ruhr, a charming Christmas market nestled in the historic old town. Visitors can discover unique, handcrafted treasures from individual stalls, perfect for finding special gifts. Indulge in the festive atmosphere...

Christmas MarketHoliday MarketFestive Food

Mülheimer Schiffsweihnacht

Mülheim an der Ruhr 7 mi from Essen
$$

Christmas market on ships with illuminated riverbank.

Experience the Mülheimer Schiffsweihnacht, a distinctive Christmas market where ships of the White Fleet and the illuminated riverbank create a magical holiday setting. This event offers a unique festive atmosphere for visitors to enjoy.

Christmas MarketHoliday MarketFestive Food

Broicher Schlossweihnacht

Mülheim an der Ruhr 7 mi from Essen
$$$

Medieval Christmas market at a historic castle.

Step back in time at the Broicher Schlossweihnacht, a captivating medieval Christmas market held at the historic Schloß Broich. Visitors are transported to a bygone era with a bustling medieval market, a moving nativity play, and the cozy glow of...

Christmas MarketHoliday MarketMedieval Market

Zimtsternfest 2025

Gladbeck 8 mi from Essen

Midnight shopping and surprise attractions

Gladbeck welcomes the holiday season with the enchanting Zimtsternfest 2025. This family-friendly event promises a magical start to Advent, featuring a delightful midnight shopping experience, captivating walking acts, and live music. Discover unique surprises and festive cheer as the community...

Holiday MarketFamily FriendlyFestive Food

Nikolausmarkt auf Hugenpoet

$$$

Historic castle Christmas market with exclusive hotel packages

Experience a magical pre-Christmas weekend at the Nikolausmarkt auf Hugenpoet. Escape the holiday rush and immerse yourself in a festive atmosphere at the historic Hugenpoet Castle. Enjoy exclusive overnight arrangements, a delightful à la carte breakfast, and a special 2-course...

Christmas MarketHoliday MarketFestive Food

Nikolausmarkt Gladbeck

Gladbeck, NW 8 mi from Essen
$

Over 60 local organizations and artisans present diverse handmade goods.

Experience the festive spirit at the Nikolausmarkt Gladbeck, a charming Christmas market held on Advents weekends. Over 60 local organizations, schools, and artisans showcase a delightful array of handmade crafts, baked goods, and unique decorative items. Discover a wide variety...

Christmas MarketHoliday MarketFamily Friendly

Weihnachtsmarkt Am Offers

Velbert 8 mi from Essen
Free

Traditional Christmas market over two weekends

Experience the magic of the Weihnachtsmarkt Am Offers, a beloved Christmas market held on the second and third weekends of Advent. Visitors of all ages can immerse themselves in the festive spirit, enjoying traditional treats and escaping the everyday hustle....

Christmas MarketHoliday MarketFestive Food

Nostalgischer Weihnachtsmarkt Hattingen

Hattingen, NW 8 mi from Essen
$$

Nostalgic Christmas market with Frau Holle's Advent calendar.

Step into a magical winter wonderland at the Nostalgischer Weihnachtsmarkt Hattingen. This charming market transforms the old town into a festive paradise with sparkling lights and enchanting holiday melodies. Discover unique treasures from over 100 artisan vendors and immerse yourself...

Christmas MarketHoliday MarketFestive Food

Christmas in Hattingen Guided Tour

Hattingen, NW 8 mi from Essen
$

Guided tours of historic Hattingen with local experts.

Step back in time with a guided tour through Hattingen's enchanting old town. Explore medieval streets lined with over 140 historic half-timbered houses, discover hidden gems, and learn about the city's rich past. Special Christmas tours offer a festive perspective...

Guided ToursHistorical ToursChristmas Market

Cranger Weihnachtszauber

Herne 9 mi from Essen
$

Europe's largest mobile Christmas theme market.

Step into a winter wonderland at the Cranger Weihnachtszauber, Europe's largest mobile Christmas theme market. From November 20 to December 30, 2025, the Cranger Kirmesplatz transforms into a festive paradise. Experience thrilling rides, a magical fairy tale forest, and dazzling...

Christmas MarketHoliday MarketIce Skating

Weihnachtlicher Blotschenmarkt Mettmann

Mettmann, NW 9 mi from Essen
$$

Historic Christmas market in the Bergisches Land

Discover the enchanting Blotschenmarkt in Mettmann, a beloved Christmas market renowned for its cozy atmosphere and historic charm. Set in the picturesque old town, this market is one of the oldest in North Rhine-Westphalia, drawing thousands of visitors. Stroll through...

Christmas MarketHoliday MarketFestive Food

Bochumer Weihnacht

Bochum 9 mi from Essen
$$

The 'Flying Santa' spectacle

The Bochumer Weihnacht transforms the city center into a festive wonderland from November 20th to December 23rd, 2025. This beloved Christmas market offers a magical experience with its unique 'Flying Santa' show, a charming medieval market, and enchanting light sculptures....

Christmas MarketHoliday MarketFamily Friendly

Heiligenhauser Weihnachtsmarkt

Heiligenhaus, NW 9 mi from Essen
$$

Community-driven market with Rathaus Advent calendar

The Heiligenhauser Weihnachtsmarkt returns to the Rathausplatz for the 3rd Advent weekend, offering a charming blend of holiday cheer, artisanal crafts, and local traditions. From December 11-14, 2025, explore diverse stalls featuring handmade gifts, festive foods, and warm drinks. Local...

Christmas MarketHoliday MarketFamily Friendly

11th Medieval Christmas Market at Hardenberg Castle

Velbert, NW 10 mi from Essen
$$

Medieval Christmas market at historic castle grounds

Step back in time at the 11th Medieval Christmas Market held at the historic Hardenberg Castle. This enchanting event transforms the castle grounds into a festive wonderland, offering a unique blend of historical charm and holiday cheer. Visitors can explore...

Christmas MarketMedieval Christmas MarketArtisanal Products

Herner Weihnachtsmarkt

Herne 10 mi from Essen
$$

Cozy market with charity stalls and local vendors

The Herner Weihnachtsmarkt offers a cozy and familial atmosphere with charmingly decorated stalls run by local vendors. Discover unique handmade crafts and support charitable organizations selling their goods. The city center is beautifully illuminated with festive lights and decorated trees,...

Christmas MarketHoliday MarketFamily Friendly

Weihnachtsbasar (Christmas Bazaar)

Herne 10 mi from Essen
$

Sale of museum exhibition items and donations.

Discover unique treasures at the Weihnachtsbasar, where the LWL-Museum für Archäologie und Kultur offers a special sale. Browse original gift ideas sourced from the museum's storage and donations, including items from the shop and educational materials. This festive market is...

Christmas MarketHoliday MarketHandmade Crafts

schauinsland-reisen Lichtermarkt 2025

Duisburg 11 mi from Essen
$$

Artisan market in illuminated industrial heritage site.

Experience the enchanting schauinsland-reisen Lichtermarkt in Duisburg-Nord's iconic industrial park. Over 120 artisans present their finest crafts amidst the illuminated blast furnaces and historic machinery. It's a unique opportunity to find special gifts and soak in a festive atmosphere.

Christmas MarketHoliday MarketArtisanal Products

Duisburg Christmas Market

Duisburg, NW 11 mi from Essen
$$

Over 100 stalls in a festive city center setting

The Duisburg Christmas Market transforms the city center into a dazzling spectacle of lights and festive cheer. Over a hundred charming wooden stalls, adorned with traditional decorations and fir trees, offer unique gifts and crafts. The air is filled with...

Christmas MarketHoliday MarketIce Skating

Christmas Market Recklinghausen

Recklinghausen, NW 13 mi from Essen

Christmas Market

Get ready for the enchanting Christmas Market Recklinghausen, returning soon with fresh information for 2025! This beloved event promises a festive atmosphere filled with holiday cheer. Prepare for a delightful experience as they gear up to welcome visitors back with...

Christmas MarketHoliday MarketFestive Atmosphere

Ratinger Adventsleuchten

Ratingen, NW 13 mi from Essen
Free

City-wide Christmas celebration with diverse activities.

Immerse yourself in the festive spirit of Ratingen's Adventsleuchten, a city-wide celebration from November 21 to December 21, 2025. Discover unique handmade crafts at the Arkadenhof's market, enjoy live music, and witness the magical illumination of the city. Children can...

Christmas MarketHoliday MarketFamily Friendly

Ratingen Christmas Market & Winter Dream

Ratingen 13 mi from Essen
$$

Historic city center Christmas market with 'Wintertraum' attractions.

Experience the magic of the Ratingen Christmas Market, a beloved tradition set in the historic city center. Browse unique handmade crafts from local schools, clubs, and associations, and enjoy a festive stage program. The 'Wintertraum' adds extra charm with activities...

Christmas MarketHoliday MarketFamily Friendly

Lions Club Marl Advent Calendar

Marl 13 mi from Essen
$

Charity advent calendar with prize raffle

Support local cultural and social initiatives by purchasing the Lions Club Marl Advent Calendar. For just €5, you can bring joy to loved ones and contribute to the community, all while having a chance to win one of 440 valuable...

Holiday MarketCharity EventCommunity Celebration

Witten Advent Calendar

Witten, NW 14 mi from Essen
Free

Interactive digital advent calendar with daily surprises

Experience the magic of the holiday season with the Witten Advent Calendar. This interactive digital calendar unveils a new surprise each day leading up to Christmas. Visit the Tourist & Ticket Service for local insights, event tickets, and unique souvenirs...

Holiday TraditionSeasonal ActivitiesCommunity Celebration

Satirischer Adventskalender Castrop-Rauxel

Castrop, NW 14 mi from Essen
$$

Satirical Advent Calendar with laser light show

Discover the Satirischer Adventskalender in Castrop-Rauxel, a unique Christmas market experience. This event features a dazzling green laser light show illuminating the city and the market square, which is filled with artisans. For those seeking an alternative to traditional markets,...

Christmas MarketHoliday MarketFestive Food

Castroper Weihnachtsdorf am Reiterbrunnen

Castrop 14 mi from Essen
$$

Six-week festive village with diverse entertainment and culinary offerings.

The Castroper Weihnachtsdorf am Reiterbrunnen returns in 2025, offering a magical six-week holiday experience from November 13 to December 31. This beloved event transforms the marketplace into a festive village with a diverse program of live music, comedy, and family-friendly...

Christmas MarketHoliday Markets And ShoppingFestive Food

Christmas Markets in Ennepe-Ruhr District

Ennepe, NW 14 mi from Essen
$

Comprehensive guide to district-wide Christmas markets

Discover the festive spirit across the Ennepe-Ruhr district with a comprehensive guide to their Christmas markets. From the nostalgic Hattingen market to the Gevelsberg Winter Magic and the traditional Breckerfeld event, explore a variety of holiday offerings. Find unique handmade...

Christmas MarketHoliday MarketFestive Food

Mettmann Blotschenmarkt Christmas Market

Mettmann, NW 14 mi from Essen
$$

Traditional German Christmas market with decorated trees

Step into a festive wonderland at the 53rd Mettmann Blotschenmarkt, running for three weeks from November 28 to December 21, 2025. Nestled around the historic St. Lambertus Church, this beloved market offers a delightful array of seasonal treats, from fragrant...

Christmas MarketHoliday MarketFestive Food

Advent an der Burg 2025

Dinslaken 14 mi from Essen
Free

Festive Christmas market with over 100 vendors and a shopping Sunday.

Discover the magical 'Advent an der Burg' in Dinslaken from December 12-14, 2025. This charming Christmas market transforms the Burginnenhof into a festive wonderland, perfect for last-minute gift shopping and enjoying the holiday spirit with family and friends. Browse unique...

Christmas MarketHoliday MarketFestive Food

Christmas Market at Lüntenbeck Castle

Wuppertal, NW 15 mi from Essen
$$

Historic castle setting for a 50-year-old Christmas market.

Step into a fairytale at the Christmas Market at Lüntenbeck Castle, a beloved tradition for 50 years. Explore over 100 stalls in the enchanting castle courtyard, offering unique gifts, fine crafts, and modern designs. Enjoy festive food, Vivaldi's music, and...

Christmas MarketHoliday MarketFamily Friendly

Suderwich St. Martin's Market

Recklinghausen, NW 15 mi from Essen
$

St. Martin's procession and lantern parade

Discover the Suderwich St. Martin's Market, where the historic village center transforms into a festive wonderland. Browse numerous stalls offering unique decorations and delicious homemade treats, perfect for finding early Christmas gifts. Savor traditional fare like Flammkuchen, crêpes, and freshly...

Christmas MarketHoliday MarketFestive Food

Marler Weihnacht - Winterzauber im Klinikpark

Marl 15 mi from Essen
$$

Artisan market in a park setting with live music.

Discover the enchanting Winterzauber at Klinikpark, a magical winter world filled with sparkling lights and festive treats. This art and craft market offers a curated selection of handmade treasures, while a diverse musical program provides a joyful soundtrack for the...

Christmas MarketHoliday MarketArtisanal Products

Wuppertaler Winterzauber 2025

Wuppertal 15 mi from Essen
$$

Heated igloos and ice stock sport lanes.

Discover the Wuppertaler Winterzauber, a magical winter event in the heart of Wuppertal. Explore a charming 'Hüttendorf' with decorated huts offering winter treats and gift ideas. Glide across the ice on the large outdoor rink or challenge friends on the...

Christmas MarketHoliday MarketIce Skating

Weihnachtsmarkt und Tannenbaumverkauf Rheinhausen

Duisburg, NW 15 mi from Essen
$$

Christmas market with tree sale and Santa visits

Discover the charming Weihnachtsmarkt und Tannenbaumverkauf at Friedenskirche Rheinhausen. This festive event features around 20 stalls offering unique crafts, decorations, and artisanal goods. Visitors can savor traditional German treats like Flammlachs, Flammkuchen, and Reibekuchen, alongside warm mulled wine. The market...

Christmas MarketHoliday MarketSanta Visits

Schwelm Christmas Market

Schwelm 16 mi from Essen
$$

Traditional Christmas market with exhibitor participation

Experience the charm of the Schwelm Christmas Market, a beloved tradition held annually on the 3rd Advent weekend. Local artisans and businesses are invited to participate, transforming the pedestrian zone into a festive wonderland. Visitors can explore creatively decorated stands,...

Christmas MarketHoliday MarketArtisanal Products

Mettmann Blotschenmarkt

Mettmann 16 mi from Essen
$

Coziest Christmas market in the Bergisches Land

Step into the historic heart of Mettmann for the Blotschenmarkt, a beloved Christmas market renowned for its cozy atmosphere. This event, one of the oldest in North Rhine-Westphalia, transforms the old town into a festive wonderland with a beautifully illuminated...

Christmas MarketHoliday MarketFestive Food

Grünewalder Adventstraum

Solingen, NW 17 mi from Essen
$$

Magical Christmas market in an illuminated castle park.

Step into a fairytale at the Grünewalder Adventstraum, a magical Christmas market set within the illuminated park of Schloss Grünewald. Discover unique treasures from over 100 artisans, enjoy festive culinary delights, and immerse yourself in a wonderland of lights and...

Christmas MarketHoliday MarketArtisanal Products

Schlossweihnacht am Schloss Horneburg

Datteln, NW 17 mi from Essen

Christmas market at historic Schloss Horneburg

Discover the enchanting Schlossweihnacht (Castle Christmas) at Schloss Horneburg. This festive market brings together local vendors and holiday cheer in a historic setting. Browse unique gifts, enjoy seasonal treats, and soak in the magical atmosphere of a traditional German Christmas...

Christmas MarketHoliday MarketFestive Food

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Frequently Asked Questions

What are the top Christmas markets to visit in Essen?

The main Christmas market at Kennedyplatz is the top market to visit in Essen, known for its festive lights and wide range of vendor stalls. Additionally, several smaller neighborhood markets near Essen offer a more intimate holiday shopping experience.

When and where are the major Christmas markets held in Essen?

The Essen Christmas Market typically runs from mid-November through December, with the main market located at Kennedyplatz. Other artisan and neighborhood markets operate concurrently in various parts of the city and nearby areas.

Are there admission fees or tickets required for Essen Christmas markets?

Most Essen Christmas markets, including the main market at Kennedyplatz, are free to enter. Some special events or activities within the markets may require tickets, but general access to vendor stalls and food areas is usually free.

Are there family-friendly activities at the Christmas markets in Essen?

Yes, many markets in Essen offer family-friendly activities such as festive rides, craft workshops, and seasonal performances. These make the markets enjoyable for visitors of all ages.

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