Briger Chrischchindlimärt: Christmas Market in Brig's Old Town

Welcome to the Briger Chrischchindlimärt in Brig

Every year in early December, the old town of Brig, set at the foot of the Simplon Pass in the canton of Valais, turns into a festive Christmas market known as the Chrischchindlimärt. Around the Stadtplatz and Bahnhofstrasse, rows of decorated market huts line the streets, while a nearby ice rink and a varied side program add to the seasonal atmosphere. The market forms part of the wider Adventszauber Brig Glis and draws visitors from across the Upper Valais region and beyond.

Highlights and Attractions at the Chrischchindlimärt in Brig

• Around 25 to 50 market huts throughout Brig's historic old town, offering everything from winter clothing to spices and unique pieces made of precious metal
• Handmade nativity figures, decorative items and regional handicrafts
• Mulled wine, non alcoholic punch, gingerbread and other warming treats at numerous stands
• A children's carousel and a puppet theater with several daily shows for the youngest visitors
• Candle dipping as a popular family activity right at the market
• Live music performances at various spots around the town center, often complemented by concerts inside the Kollegiumskirche
• Two Sunday shopping openings for local stores during the market period as an extra reason to visit

Program and Schedule: What to Expect in Brig

The Chrischchindlimärt traditionally runs over four days around the first or second weekend of December, usually from Thursday or Friday through Sunday or Monday. In previous years, stalls stayed open on weekdays until around 8 to 10 pm and closed earlier on Sundays. At the time of research, the exact dates and opening hours for the upcoming edition had not yet been finalized on the official Brig Simplon Tourism website, so visitors are advised to check the latest announcements before planning their trip.

Tickets and Admission for the Chrischchindlimärt

Access to the Christmas market itself is free of charge, no ticket is required. Individual attractions such as the ice rink on the Stadtplatz, which operates alongside the market, are available for a small separate fee. Food, mulled wine and purchases at the market stalls are paid for individually on site.

Other Christmas Markets and Events in Brig and Nearby

Adventszauber Brig Glis and the Ice Rink

The Chrischchindlimärt is part of the larger Adventszauber Brig Glis, which begins in late November and traditionally runs into early January. Its centerpiece is a festively decorated ice rink using synthetic ice right on the Stadtplatz, open to skaters throughout the Advent season. Surrounding market huts already serve warm drinks and snacks in the weeks before the main Chrischchindlimärt weekend.

Natischer Adventsmärt in Naters

Just a short walk or drive from Brig lies Naters, where the local trade association organizes the Natischer Adventsmärt every year in late November. This multi day Christmas market is centered on Kirchstrasse in the middle of Naters and features handicraft stalls, gift ideas and regional specialties, along with a stage program. Many regional visitors combine a trip here with a visit to the Chrischchindlimärt in Brig.

Visitor Tips: Travel and Accommodation in Brig

• The Chrischchindlimärt is only about a five minute walk from Brig railway station, and organizers explicitly recommend arriving by train
• Visitors arriving by car will find several parking lots and garages near the Stadtplatz
• Early December typically brings cold temperatures to the Upper Valais, so warm clothing and sturdy footwear are recommended
• Since the market attracts many day visitors from across Valais, overnight guests should book accommodation in or around Brig well in advance
• Families can easily combine the Chrischchindlimärt with a skating session and a visit to the nearby Stockalper Castle