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Welcome to the Lübeck Christmas Market 2026 in the Christmas City of the North
From November 23 to December 30, 2026, the old town of Lübeck around the town hall and market square transforms into the traditional Christmas City of the North. Set against the UNESCO World Heritage backdrop of Gothic brick churches and narrow lanes, this is the oldest and largest of Lübeck's eleven Christmas markets, first documented as far back as the year 1648.
Highlights and Attractions at the Lübeck Christmas Market
- Handcrafted ornaments, jewelry and glassware around the town hall and Breite Straße
- The scent of mulled wine, roasted almonds and gingerbread among the historic gabled houses
- The Christmas quarter on the Schrangen with savory and sweet treats
- Ten further themed Christmas worlds nearby, from maritime to fairy tale
- Organ concerts and festive events inside the city's Gothic churches
- More than 180 decorated stalls spread across eleven themed markets
- A ferris wheel and festive rides for families with children
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Program and Schedule: What to Expect in Lübeck
The main Lübeck Christmas Market is open Sunday through Thursday from 11:00 am to 9:00 pm and Friday and Saturday from 11:00 am to 10:00 pm. It stays closed on December 24 and 25, opens from 1:00 pm to 8:00 pm on December 26, and closes early at 6:00 pm on December 30. Since opening hours can vary slightly between the different Christmas worlds, it is worth checking the official Lübeck tourism website before visiting.
Tickets and Admission for the Lübeck Christmas Market
Visiting all eleven Lübeck Christmas markets is completely free. No ticket is required, though individual attractions such as the ferris wheel, the children's train and the carousel charge small fees on site.
The Christmas Markets in Lübeck at a Glance
What makes the Lübeck Christmas Market so special is the sheer number of distinct Christmas worlds spread across the entire old town island. To experience the full Christmas City of the North, these ten additional markets should not be missed.
Historic Christmas Market at St. Mary's Churchyard (November 23 to December 23, 2026)
Around the churchyard of St. Mary's, the Historic Christmas Market takes visitors on a medieval journey back in time. Between open fire pits and stalls selling spices, furs and handmade goods, a mystical winter atmosphere unfolds in the shadow of the church.
Starlit Forest at Klingenberg (November 23 to December 30, 2026)
In the heart of the city, the Forest of a Thousand Stars awaits. Festive lights sparkle among green fir trees while red trading huts offer individual gifts, and charitable organizations present their projects. Children can drop off wish lists at the Santa mailbox until the second Sunday of Advent.
Fairy Tale Forest at St. Mary's Church (November 23 to December 30, 2026)
Located right next to St. Mary's Church, the Fairy Tale Forest brings beloved childhood characters back to life. Aimed especially at families, its themed stalls and figures make it one of the most popular photo spots during the Lübeck Christmas season.
St. Petri Craft Market (November 24 to December 14, 2026)
In and around St. Petri Church, regional artisans present one of a kind pieces, from ceramics to woodwork and handmade jewelry. Its quieter character makes this market a favorite for anyone seeking individual gifts away from the busiest crowds.
Heiligen Geist Hospital Craft Market (November 27 to December 6, 2026)
One of Lübeck's most atmospheric Christmas experiences takes place inside the historic Heiligen Geist Hospital, one of Europe's oldest social buildings. Under its Gothic vaulted ceilings, artisans sell their crafts in a truly unique and almost reverent setting.
Lübsche Wiehnacht Craft Market (November 21 and 22, and November 28 and 29, 2026)
Lübsche Wiehnacht takes place on just two Advent weekends and deliberately celebrates the region's traditional Low German Christmas culture. Regional crafts and local specialties take center stage, making it a particularly authentic experience.
Maritime Christmas Market at Koberg (November 23 to December 29, 2026)
At Koberg, in the former seafarers' quarter in the northwest of the old town island, the Maritime Christmas Market honors Lübeck's long history as a Hanseatic city. Sailor's tales, maritime crafts and warming winter treats fit perfectly into this nautical setting.
Harbor Glow at Drehbrückenplatz (November 23 to December 29, 2026)
Right on the waterfront, Hafenglühen creates a particularly romantic winter mood. Strings of lights reflect on the harbor basin while stalls serve hot drinks and hearty snacks. It is the ideal spot for a quiet finish to a Christmas stroll by the water.
Wichtelwunderland (November 23 to December 30, 2026)
Designed especially for families with young children, Wichtelwunderland offers a children's train, a carousel and wish time with Santa Claus himself. Colorful stalls and a child friendly program make this one of the most popular stops for a family Christmas outing.
Niederegger Christmas Bazaar (November 23 to December 24, 2026)
Inside the Niederegger house on Breite Straße, everything revolves around Lübeck's famous marzipan. Filled advent calendars, chocolate covered marzipan pine cones, stollen and pralines make this Christmas bazaar a must visit stop for anyone looking to take home the city's sweetest specialty.
Visitor Tips: Travel and Accommodation in Lübeck
- Lübeck's main train station is just a short walk from the old town island, making train travel especially convenient
- Parking in the old town is limited during the Christmas season, so parking garages on the edge of the city with good access to the center are a solid alternative
- Warm clothing and weatherproof shoes are recommended, since the Christmas stroll stretches across several outdoor squares and lanes
- Accommodation in the old town should be booked well ahead given the high demand around Advent weekends
- Anyone hoping to visit several of the eleven Christmas worlds should plan for a full day, as the markets are spread across the entire old town island
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.
