Alt-Rothenburger Reiterlesmarkt
Set against the picturesque backdrop between the town hall and St. Jakob, the market features 61 stalls offering Christmas decorations, pastries, and treats across historic squares and the town hall courtyard. The entire old town is adorned with festive lights, extending through alleys such as Herrngasse. Each evening, an individually designed advent calendar window is revealed on the second floor of the town hall.
What to Expect
Traditional Christmas market with 61 stalls across Rothenburg's historic squares
Event Details
Ages
All ages
Neighborhood
Old Town
Timed Entry
No
Organizer
Rothenburg Tourismus Service
Food & Drink
Market stalls offer baked goods.
Local Insight & Ratings
Family Friendly
Best For
Christmas market shoppers and fans of historic settings
Vibe
Traditional and romantic
Energy Level
Moderate
Photo Friendly
High
Weather Sensitivity
High
Location
Know Before You Go
- Hours: Sunday-Thursday 11:00-19:00; Friday-Saturday 11:00-20:00.
Tips & Advice
- Be on the Marktplatz on the Friday before the first Advent to see the Reiterle ride in on horseback and the big tree lit.
- Look up at the town hall's second floor in the evening, when a new Advent window designed by local school classes and youth groups is opened.
- Get the 2026 stall plan and program extract, also available in English, to find your way around the 61 stalls.
- Wander beyond the stalls through old town lanes such as Herrngasse, which are strung with festive lights throughout Advent.
- Avoid Totensonntag, November 22, because the market is closed that day while the rest of the run stays open daily.
Special Events & Promotions
- Traditional opening on the Friday before the first Advent: the Reiterle rides into the Marktplatz and the big Christmas tree is lit.
- Each evening of Advent, a new Advent window made by local school classes and youth groups opens on the town hall's second floor.
Quick Actions
Frequently Asked Questions
What happens at the opening ceremony?
The market opens on the Marktplatz on the Friday before the first Advent. The Reiterle rides in on horseback and greets the crowd. After the mayor's welcome, the big Christmas tree in the centre is lit.
What is the Advent window at the town hall?
Every evening, a new Advent window opens on the second floor of the town hall. School classes and youth groups from the region make the windows.
How many stalls are there?
There are 61 stalls. They sell Christmas decorations, pastries and other treats, including in the town hall's Lichthof courtyard.
Is there information in English?
Yes. The 2026 stall plan and program extract are also available in English.
Is the rest of the old town decorated?
Yes. The whole old town is lit up during Advent, including lanes such as Herrngasse, where the houses are strung with lights.
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