Artistic rendering – Event may differ
Stader Weihnachtsmarkt (Stade Christmas Market)
Dual market experience with harbor views and traditional charm.
About
Stade's charming old town transforms into a festive wonderland for the annual Stader Weihnachtsmarkt. Explore two distinct market areas: the traditional market at Pferdemarkt with its iconic Christmas pyramid, and the cozy Hafen-Weihnacht at Fischmarkt, offering a unique harbor ambiance with fire pits and seating igloos. Discover handcrafted treasures, savor seasonal treats, and enjoy a rich program of live music, children's activities, and winter sports like ice skating.
Our Take
Family Friendly
Best For
Families, couples, shoppers
Vibe
Festive, cozy, traditional, charming
Energy Level
Moderate
Budget
$$
Photo Friendly
Weather Sensitivity
Low
Special Events & Promotions
- Hafen-Weihnacht with cozy seating igloos and fire pits
- Kunsthandwerkermarkt (Artisan Market) on Advent weekends
- Ice stock sport and ice skating available
- Children's program with Santa visits and workshops
- Live music performances by choirs and bands
- Hüttenparty mit DJ Toddy (Hut party with DJ Toddy)
Always check the official website for the most current information.
We've done our best to keep details up-to-date, but event schedules, prices, and policies can change. For the latest updates, please visit the official website or contact the organizers directly.
Location
Event Details
Pricing
$$
Duration
Multiple weeks
Ages
All ages
Neighborhood
Altstadt (Old Town)
Timed Entry
No
Featured Performers
- Duo Leuchtfeuer
- Chor der GS Bockhorster Weg
- Hexe Knickebein
- Bridges & Hooks
- Lightfire & Friends
- Sarah Müller
- Chor der Pestalozzi GS
- Nadine Sieben
- Laura & Benjamin
- Georgie Carbutler
- Kasperletheater Rasch
- The Living Music Box
- Blasorchester Himmelpforten
- Gutbier & Vogeler
- Chor der Montessori- Grundschule
- Grundschule am Burggraben
- Cantiamo - Chor der freien Waldorfschule
- Chor der Grundschule Campe
- Stader Hafensänger
Organizer
STADE Marketing und Tourismus GmbH
Practical Information
Parking
Information available on parking in Stade: https://stade-tourismus.de/de/stadtleben/parken-in-stade/
Pet Policy
No pets allowed (inferred from general event type, no specific mention)
Food & Drink
Culinary delights, Glühwein, baked goods, mulled wine, and various treats available from stalls.
Tips & Advice
- Arrive early on weekends, especially for the Kunsthandwerkermarkt, as it can get crowded. Consider visiting on a weekday for a more relaxed experience.
- Take advantage of the various music performances scheduled throughout the Advent season; check the schedule beforehand to catch your favorite acts.
- Don't miss the unique atmosphere of the Hafen-Weihnacht at Fischmarkt, with its cozy seating igloos and fire pits, perfect for warming up.
- Wear comfortable, warm shoes as you'll be doing a lot of walking between the different market areas and potentially ice skating.
- Explore the children's program, which includes activities like meeting Santa, storytelling, and craft workshops, making it a great outing for families.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the opening hours for the different Christmas markets?
The main Stader Weihnachtsmarkt at Pferdemarkt is open Monday-Thursday 10:30 AM - 8:00 PM, Friday-Saturday 10:30 AM - 9:00 PM, and Sunday 12:00 PM - 8:00 PM. The Hafen-Weihnacht at Fischmarkt is open Sunday-Thursday 12:00 PM - 9:00 PM and Friday-Saturday 12:00 PM - 10:00 PM. A smaller winter market at Fischmarkt remains open until December 29th daily from 12:00 PM - 8:00 PM.
Is there an entrance fee for the Christmas markets?
Admission to the Stader Weihnachtsmarkt and its associated markets is generally free. Prices apply to purchases made at the stalls and for activities like ice skating.
What kind of food and drinks can I expect?
You can expect a variety of festive treats, including Glühwein (mulled wine), baked goods, and other seasonal delicacies from the market stalls.
Are there activities for children?
Yes, there is a dedicated children's program throughout Advent, featuring activities like meeting Santa, storytelling, craft workshops, and ice skating.
Where can I find unique handmade gifts?
The Kunsthandwerkermarkt, held in the Rathaus on Advent weekends, is the perfect place to find unique, handcrafted items and Christmas gifts.
