Gelsenkirchen Christmas Events & Things to Do 2025
Your complete guide to the best christmas events in Gelsenkirchen and surrounding areas
Gelsenkirchen welcomes the festive season with bright Christmas lights and a friendly mix of things to do around the city’s cultural hubs and shopping streets. Enjoy festive events like Rockin' Around the Christmas Tree Concert or The Dark Tenor - Weihnachtszauber, plus lively markets that spotlight local vendors and seasonal treats. Families will find holiday activities and winter festivals that blend music, lights, and community spirit for a memorable seasonal experience.
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Christmas Markets
47 eventsAward-winning sustainable Christmas market with interactive escape game.
Christmas Shows
24 eventsA unique retelling of "A Christmas Carol" driven by love.
Christmas Parties
10 eventsNew Year's Eve package with gourmet dining and celebration.
Other Christmas Activities
15 eventsIce skating amidst historic industrial architecture.
Editor's Picks (6)
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International Christmas Market Essen
(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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Cranger Weihnachtszauber
(Herne)
Europe's largest mobile Christmas theme market.
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Zollverein Ice Rink
(Essen)
Ice skating amidst historic industrial architecture.
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Mülheimer Schiffsweihnacht
(Mülheim an der Ruhr)
Christmas market on ships with illuminated riverbank.
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Der Geist der Weihnacht - The Spirit of Christmas Musical
(Oberhausen)
A unique retelling of "A Christmas Carol" driven by love.
This Week / Coming Up (6)
Christmas Giving Opportunities Near Gelsenkirchen
Give back this holiday season with volunteering and charitable opportunities in Gelsenkirchen.
WDR 2 Weihnachtswunder Essen
Live broadcast for charity from a glass studio
View Our Interactive Map for More Events Around Gelsenkirchen
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Also Near Gelsenkirchen
Essen
- Overview of Christmas Services in the Parish
- International Medieval Christmas Market Essen
- Internationale Kerstmarkt Essen
Herne
- Weihnachtsbasar (Christmas Bazaar)
- New Year's Concerts at the Kulturzentrum
- Veranstaltungen im Schloss Strünkede
Gelsenkirchen Christmas FAQ
The biggest annual Christmas event is the city center Christmas market at Heinrich-König-Platz, which features festive stalls, an alpine hut, and seasonal entertainment. Other notable events include holiday concerts and special market days throughout December.
Gelsenkirchen celebrates with a blend of traditional German Christmas markets and local cultural events, including musical performances and community gatherings that highlight the city's festive spirit and regional customs.
Several residential neighborhoods in Gelsenkirchen are known for their charming Christmas light displays, offering cozy walking trails and neighborhood displays that attract locals and visitors alike during the holiday season.
The primary location for Christmas markets and local artisan vendors is Heinrich-König-Platz in the city center. Additionally, smaller markets and craft fairs featuring local makers can be found in various community spaces throughout Gelsenkirchen.
Enjoying the free neighborhood light displays and visiting the public Christmas markets are great budget-friendly options. Seasonal concerts and community events often offer free or low-cost entertainment during the holidays.
Families can enjoy the Christmas market’s Santa Claus visits, puppet shows, and festive walking trails. These activities provide engaging and child-friendly holiday experiences in a safe and welcoming environment.