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Event Details
Welcome to the Altenburg Christmas Market 2026
From November 27 to December 29, 2026, the historic market square in Altenburg, known as the home of the card game Skat, turns into a festive Christmas market. The baroque townhouses surrounding the square create a particularly picturesque backdrop for one of the region's most popular small Christmas markets.
Highlights and Attractions at the Altenburg Christmas Market
- A Christmas tree richly decorated with lights at the center of the market square
- A wood turning demonstration where visitors can watch a craftsman at work and take home a traditional Ore Mountains ring animal
- A children's hut for writing and decorating wish lists on the spot
- A daily visit from Santa Claus at the market square starting at 4pm
- Regional specialties such as Altenburg goat cheese, Thuringian bratwurst and Mutzbraten pastries
- Live music performances on the stage at the market square
- A lantern parade on St Nicholas Day that leads from the Residenzschloss palace to the market
Find Accommodation in Altenburg
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Free cancellation on most hotels
Program and Schedule: What to Expect in Altenburg
The market is open daily, except for December 24 and 25, when the Christmas market remains closed. On St Nicholas Day, December 6, a lantern parade departs from the Residenzschloss palace courtyard at 4:30pm accompanied by the Altenburg marching band, with Frau Holle greeting the children with a small surprise at the market.
Tickets and Admission for the Altenburg Christmas Market 2026
Admission to the Altenburg Christmas Market is free. Food, drinks and craft materials at the children's hut come at their usual modest prices.
Visitor Tips: Travel and Accommodation in Altenburg
- Altenburg sits directly on the rail line between Leipzig and Chemnitz, and the station is an easy walk from the market square
- Parking is available in the city center and near the Residenzschloss palace, just a short stroll from the market
- Warm clothing is worth packing for the evening hours, when the market looks its best under the lights
- Accommodation in Altenburg should be booked early, especially on Advent weekends
- A visit to the Residenzschloss palace is worthwhile, particularly around St Nicholas Day with its lantern parade
Note: The information on this page was researched at the time of writing and may have changed since then (e.g. date, venue, or program). Visit the organizer's official website →
The photo used is illustrative and does not necessarily depict the actual event.
