Essen International Christmas Market 2024

From 15th November to 23rd December 2024 

When fragrant mulled wine warms your hands, the smell of freshly roasted almonds fills the air and a festive glow hangs over the entire Essen city center, it can only mean one thing: The Essen International Christmas Market has started again. From November 15 to December 23, look forward to one of the largest and most beautiful markets in the country, which will make your pre-Christmas season that much more beautiful and magical. And the International Christmas Market can do this like no other.

It was voted sixth in Europe in the "European Best Christmas Markets" online voting 2023. The Christmas market, which stretches across the entire city centre, impresses with a variety of goods from almost 20 countries around the world. There are Christmas decorations from Israel, jewellery from the Baltic States and delicacies from Italy and France. The medieval market on the Flachsmarkt takes you back to times long past. Here, traders dressed in medieval costumes sell their leather goods, jewellery or honey wines by torchlight and jugglers' music. 

In addition to the unique atmosphere and the variety of goods, great importance is also attached to sustainability. No wonder, as Essen has been the "European Green Capital" since 2017. For years, only "green electricity" has been used and all caterers do not use disposable plastic crockery for on-site consumption and rely on a deposit system for cups and glasses when serving drinks. There is also an absolute ban on plastic bags. When selecting goods, the traders emphasise regional, fair trade and organic products as well as a good ecological balance.

The Essen International Christmas Market is made unique by the Essen Light Weeks. For 75 years, they have been providing a very special Christmas stroll during Advent with changing light motifs. A highlight - especially for young visitors - is the animal park made of light with illuminated animals from all continents of the world. Rhinoceros, kangaroo, orca, deer and co. are the perfect motifs for a beautiful souvenir photo of a very special day at the International Christmas Market. If you want to see the full beauty of the market for yourself, take a seat on the light wheel and let yourself be carried 45 metres above the festively illuminated Essen city centre. The magic of the light comes into its own even more when it is dark.

For more information: 

International Christmas Market Essen

November 15 to December 23, 2024

visitessen.de/weihnachten

Essen Light Weeks

October 27, 2024 to January 04, 2025

visitessen.de/lichtwochen

During your stay do not miss to visit the Best Christmas Markets in Germany, Best Castles in Germany, Most Amazing Hidden Gems in Germany as well as the Best Ski Resorts in Germany. 

Book your flights, your accommodation as well as your activities & tours in Germany and discover the best of Germany.