The Christmas market classic in the Ruhr area
Christmas City Dortmund 2026
One of the largest Christmas markets in Europe.
With over 250 stalls selling handicrafts, Christmas decorations, unusual toys, and much more, you'll find almost everything to make your heart beat faster during Advent. And what would a visit to Dortmund's Christmas City be without the many specialty drinks and mulled wine from the annual mug? With its annually changing motif, it's a sought-after collector's item.
Dortmund's Christmas city offers culinary delights such as hearty dishes such as bratwurst and Westphalian grilled ham, as well as sweet treats such as roasted almonds, crêpes, and other delicacies.
The Christmas town offers stalls and entertainment for the whole family.
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The latest at a glance
Our News
Here you'll find out all about the latest highlights and most exciting developments in Dortmund's Christmas City. We'll keep you up to date on live performances, artistic presentations, and planned surprises. Immerse yourself in the magical atmosphere of our Christmas market and don't miss any news. We look forward to welcoming you to our market!
Groundbreaking ceremony for the world's largest Christmas tree: Anticipation grows in the sunshine.
Mit einer außerordentlich guten Besucherzahl und einer Fülle an positiven Rückmeldungen verabschiedet sich die Weihnachtsstadt Dortmund 2024 in die wohlverdiente Winterpause.
October 21, 2026
New in Dortmund's Christmas city: CHRISTMAS KITCHEN BY DYLLONG
Mit einer außerordentlich guten Besucherzahl und einer Fülle an positiven Rückmeldungen verabschiedet sich die Weihnachtsstadt Dortmund 2024 in die wohlverdiente Winterpause.
October 20, 2026
Opening hours
November 19 - December 30, 2026
Mon to Thurs: 11am to 9pm
Fri and Sat: 11am to 10pm
Sun: noon–9 pm
Mulled wine and snack stands
OPEN ABOUT ONE HOUR LONGER
Special opening hours
24 December: 11 am–2 pm (only selected stalls open)
22 November (Totensonntag): closed
25 December (Christmas Day): closed
26 and 27 December: noon–9 pm each day
28–30 December: 11 am–9 pm each day
The world's biggest Christmas tree
The largest Christmas tree in the world
Every November, the day after Totensonntag (the German Protestant Sunday of the Dead), the world's largest Christmas tree (45 meters) is illuminated with its approximately 138,000 LED lights. Until December 30, it shines in the center of Hansaplatz as the city's major Christmas landmark.
Light show
Starting at 5 p.m., there will be a light show with changing effects every half hour.
45 m
Height
28 T
Setup time
40 tons
difficult
138,000
LEDs
4 m
high angel
Discover the diverse program
PROGRAM 2026
In Dortmund’s Christmas City, visitors can look forward to a wide range of events for all ages. Musical highlights in the city’s churches, atmospheric services, creative activities for children, magical shows, reading moments, concerts, communal singing, traditional elements around the large Christmas tree and many other experiences fill the Advent season with warmth and togetherness.
Light installations
Dortmund time travel
From a Hanseatic city to a modern metropolis, from a coal-mining region to a technology hub: In Dortmund, the Christmas City, ten fascinating art installations invite you on a journey through the city's exciting history. These installations connect historical events with Dortmund's modern development, bringing the city to life in a unique way.
MK Illumination Handels GmbH from Innsbruck, in collaboration with the Dortmund-based lighting specialist BELLLUCI, was responsible for the complex design and production of the compositions. The result was powder-coated aluminum figures, fiberglass statues, and impressive LED light installations.
Hand-picked by Knecht Ruprecht
Tips for the Christmas city
A whole city brimming with things to do. It's easy to lose track! That's why we're giving you firsthand tips about Dortmund's Christmas city. From the smartest way to get there, to programs for kids and explorers, to family-friendly accommodations in our hotel recommendations.
Over 250 magical stalls across 10 squares
Stand plans
The Christmas city of Dortmund is a place full of magical experiences and a wealth of delicious food and handmade treasures. From traditional Christmas decorations to unique handicraft ideas, there's something for every taste and need. The various culinary delicacies, such as mulled wine, roasted almonds, and bratwurst, lift the spirits and warm the body on cold winter days. The variety of sweet treats such as gingerbread, stollen, and chocolate will delight every sweet tooth. Here, you can find a special gift or something unique for yourself.
FAQs
Use the free Park & Ride facilities (up to 24 hours when using public transport). Near the city center, the parking guidance system and parking garages will help you find your way.
Baking & crafts, magic and puppet shows, a visit from Santa Claus, a scavenger hunt, and more.
Yes, the city's Park & Ride facilities are located directly at public transport stops, so you can easily continue your journey by bus or train.
Yes, the city’s Park & Ride facilities are located directly at public transport stops, so you can easily continue your journey by bus or train.
Yes, the city’s Park & Ride facilities are located directly at public transport stops, so you can easily continue your journey by bus or train.
Yes, the city’s Park & Ride facilities are located directly at public transport stops, so you can easily continue your journey by bus or train.
Yes, the city’s Park & Ride facilities are located directly at public transport stops, so you can easily continue your journey by bus or train.
Yes, the city’s Park & Ride facilities are located directly at public transport stops, so you can easily continue your journey by bus or train.
Yes, the city’s Park & Ride facilities are located directly at public transport stops, so you can easily continue your journey by bus or train.
Close by our side
Cooperations
Christmas is a celebration of love and gratitude for friends and family. This is already evident in the contemplative pre-Christmas season. We, too, are grateful for our friendly partnerships, which help us become a little better every year. For all our visitors, rather than for ourselves.