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Event Details
Welcome to the Internationaler Weihnachtsmarkt Essen 2026 in Essen
The Essen International Christmas Market runs from 13 November to 23 December 2026 around Kennedyplatz. visitessen.de also lists Willy-Brandt-Platz, Kettwiger Strasse, Burgplatz and the medieval market on Flachsmarkt. Entry is free. Sunday to Thursday the hours are 11:00–21:00, Friday and Saturday 11:00–22:00; rides and food are paid separately.
Highlights & Attractions at Internationaler Weihnachtsmarkt Essen in Essen
- Crown of lights and Essen Light Weeks over Kennedyplatz
- Stalls from about 20 countries, with a high share of crafts and gifts
- Medieval market on Flachsmarkt
- Ferris wheel and seasonal rides in the centre
- X-Mas Lounge with a view over the square
- Green power and reusable tableware, according to the organiser
- Free access; only food, drink and rides cost money
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Program & Schedule: What to Expect in 2026
The market opens on Friday 13 November 2026 and closes on Wednesday 23 December 2026. Weekdays and Sundays end at 21:00, Fridays and Saturdays at 22:00. In previous years the market was closed on Totensonntag and opened later on Volkstrauertag; 2026 exceptions are on visitessen.de.
The organiser is EMG Essen Marketing GmbH. The market is one of the largest in North Rhine-Westphalia and sits in the pedestrian zone between the main station and Burgplatz.
Tickets & Admission for Internationaler Weihnachtsmarkt Essen Essen
Access to the market is free. There is no day ticket. Food, mulled wine, souvenirs and rides such as the Ferris wheel are paid at the stalls. price_min and price_max are therefore 0. Check visitessen.de for current notes.
Visitor Tips: Travel & Accommodation in Essen
- S-Bahn and U-Bahn to Essen Hauptbahnhof; Kennedyplatz is a short walk
- November and December are wet and cold; wear solid shoes and a warm layer
- Book hotels near the station and city centre early; weekends fill up
- Use Centralgarage Kennedyplatz only if needed; public transport is easier
- Use only visitessen.de for hours, Totensonntag and the Light Weeks
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.
