Event Details
Welcome to the Dresden Striezelmarkt 2026
From 26 November to 24 December 2026, the Dresden Striezelmarkt opens its gates. First mentioned in a document in 1434, the market celebrates its 592nd anniversary in 2026, making it Germany's oldest documented Christmas market. Visitors from all over the world flock to the historic Altmarkt to immerse themselves in a sea of lights, traditional Ore Mountain wood art, and the scent of the world-famous Dresdner Christstollen.
Highlights
- Germany's oldest Christmas market (since 1434)
- The world's largest Ore Mountain step pyramid (14.62 meters high)
- The walk-through candle arch (Schwibbogen) and historic fairground rides
- The renowned Dresdner Christstollen (also known as Striezel)
- Traditional crafts like Herrnhut stars and Pflaumentoffel (plum figures)
- Daily stage performances and the traditional Stollen Festival
- Over 200 beautifully decorated stalls in the heart of the Old Town
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Program
The Striezelmarkt is open daily from 10:00 AM to 9:00 PM. On opening day, the festivities usually start in the afternoon with an ecumenical church service followed by the official opening ceremony. A major highlight is the annual Dresden Stollen Festival, traditionally held on the Saturday before the second Advent. During this event, a giant Stollen is paraded through the city before being cut and shared. On Christmas Eve (24 December), the market closes early at 2:00 PM.
Tickets
Admission to the Dresden Striezelmarkt is completely free. No tickets are required to enter the event area at the Altmarkt. Tickets for the historical children's rides can be purchased directly on site.
Visitor Tips
- Due to the large number of visitors, it is highly recommended to use public transportation (DVB) to Postplatz or Prager Straße.
- Make sure to taste the original Dresdner Christstollen and buy one as a delicious souvenir.
- Purchase a "Pflaumentoffel" (a small chimney sweep figure made of prunes) as a traditional lucky charm.
- Visit during the evening hours when the giant step pyramid and Herrnhut stars are beautifully illuminated.
- Dress warmly, as temperatures in Dresden can drop significantly in December.
