Are you attending?
Event Details
Welcome to the Bernkastel-Kues Christmas Market 2026 in Bernkastel-Kues
The Bernkastel-Kues Christmas Market 2026 takes place from 20 November to 20 December in the medieval old town. Nestled among historic half-timbered houses along the Moselle, visitors can enjoy a particularly atmospheric setting with more than 40 festively decorated stalls, regional specialities and unique highlights.
Highlights & Attractions at Bernkastel-Kues Christmas Market in Bernkastel-Kues
- More than 40 Christmas stalls in the narrow lanes of the historic old town
- Distinctive Riesling mulled wine as a culinary signature
- The largest Advent calendar in the region on a historic half-timbered building on the market square
- Traditional torch swimming with over 100 divers on the Moselle
- Musical Christmas fireworks on 19 December
- Live music on the winter stage and additional performances
- Romantic half-timbered setting right on the Moselle
Find Accommodation in Bernkastel-Kues
Compare the best hotel prices for this event and secure your accommodation in time.
Free cancellation on most hotels
Program & Schedule: What to Expect in 2026
The market opens on 20 November 2026 and runs until 20 December. It remains closed on 22 November (Remembrance Sunday). Opening hours are Monday to Thursday from 11:00 to 19:00, Friday and Saturday from 11:00 to 21:00, and Sunday from 11:00 to 19:00. In addition to the classic market experience there is an extensive supporting programme including the daily opening of the giant Advent calendar, live music and special events on selected days.
Tickets & Admission for Bernkastel-Kues Christmas Market
Admission to the Bernkastel-Kues Christmas Market is free of charge. There are no tickets or entrance fees. Drinks, food and purchases at the stalls are paid separately. Current information is available on the official website.
Visitor Tips: Travel & Accommodation in Bernkastel-Kues
- Arrive by car via the B50 or A1/A60; use parking at the edge of town or in Kues and walk or cross the bridge into the old town.
- Warm clothing and sturdy shoes are recommended, as the market takes place outdoors in the narrow lanes and conditions can be cold and wet.
- Book accommodation in the old town or with a view of the Moselle early, as the market is particularly busy at weekends and during the highlight events.
- Arrive in good time for the torch swimming and the fireworks to secure a good viewing spot along the riverbank.
- Enjoy the Riesling mulled wine in the original mug and explore the historic old town at dusk when the lighting is especially atmospheric.
Bernkastel-Kues Christmas Market 2026
The main market is spread across the historic old town of Bernkastel with more than 40 stalls. Visitors will find handicrafts, Christmas decorations, regional products and culinary specialities. The narrow half-timbered setting and the location on the Moselle make it one of the most characteristic Christmas markets in the region.
Advent Calendar on the Market Square 2026
From 1 to 24 December a historic half-timbered house on the market square is transformed into the largest Advent calendar in the region. A new door opens every day, accompanied by a festive performance such as singing, a poem or a reading.
Torch Swimming 2026
On 5 December 2026 the traditional torch swimming takes place. More than 100 sports divers swim with burning torches through the cold Moselle and accompany St. Nicholas. The event attracts large crowds to the riverbank and is one of the most spectacular highlights of the market.
Christmas Fireworks 2026
On 19 December 2026 a musical Christmas fireworks display lights up the evening sky over Bernkastel-Kues. The fireworks are best viewed from the Bernkastel side and form a festive highlight of the season.
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.
