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Event Details
Welcome to the Unikat Christmas Market Schloss Bensberg 2026 in Bergisch Gladbach
From 10 to 13 December 2026, the 15th Unikat Christmas Market at Althoff Grandhotel Schloss Bensberg in Bergisch Gladbach invites visitors to a special Advent experience. Set against the magnificent backdrop of one of Germany’s most beautiful baroque castles, guests can expect high-quality arts and crafts, regional manufactory products and a festive atmosphere. Under the motto “Unikat” (unique), the market offers far more than classic Christmas stalls and is regarded as one of Germany’s most atmospheric Christmas markets.
Highlights & Attractions at Unikat Christmas Market in Bergisch Gladbach
- High-quality manufactory and concept-store mile featuring individual unique pieces and lovingly crafted gift ideas
- Traditional and regional Christmas classics in beautifully decorated huts and pagodas in the castle courtyard
- Culinary specialities such as castle bratwurst, fresh kale, cinnamon rolls and mulled wine
- Live music programme with regional artists, choirs and ensembles on all days
- After-Work Christmas Market on Thursday with DJ, saxophone and light show
- Musical fairy-tale concert “The Frog King” on Sunday in the Goethe Salon (separate ticket required)
- Festive illumination of the baroque castle façade and thousands of lights in the courtyard
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Program & Schedule: What to Expect in 2026
The Unikat Christmas Market opens on Thursday, 10 December 2026, from 5:00 PM to 10:00 PM as an After-Work Christmas Market with Beats, Sax & Glühwein. On Friday and Saturday (11 and 12 December) the market runs from 3:00 PM to 10:00 PM, and on Sunday, 13 December, from 12:00 PM to 8:00 PM. The programme features “Kölsche Weihnacht” (Cologne Christmas) on Friday, “Classics by Candlelight” on Saturday and “Gospel & Glory” on Sunday. In addition, the musical fairy-tale concert “The Frog King” takes place on Sunday at 2:00 PM, 3:00 PM and 4:00 PM in the Goethe Salon.
Tickets & Admission for Unikat Christmas Market Bergisch Gladbach
Admission on Thursday (After-Work Market) costs €9 per person including one glass of mulled wine or non-alcoholic punch. From Friday to Sunday the entrance fee is €14 per person, also including a drink. Children up to twelve years of age enjoy free admission. Until 15 November 2026 a 15% Early Bird discount is available on Friday-to-Sunday tickets (non-refundable). Tickets can be purchased online and at the box office on site. The separate fairy-tale concert costs €29 (from age 12) or €10 for children and includes market admission on Sunday.
Visitor Tips: Travel & Accommodation in Bergisch Gladbach
- Getting there: Bensberg underground station is only a few minutes’ walk away; by car the castle is easily accessible, but parking is limited – arrive early or use public transport.
- Clothing: Warm, weatherproof clothing and comfortable shoes are recommended, as the market takes place outdoors in the castle courtyard in December.
- Accommodation: The Althoff Grandhotel Schloss Bensberg itself or hotels in Bergisch Gladbach and Cologne are good options – book early as the Advent season is in high demand.
- Early ticket booking is worthwhile due to the Early Bird discount and limited capacity.
- For families: The fairy-tale concert on Sunday is a special highlight for children and should be booked separately.
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.
