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Event Details
Welcome to the Christmas Market at the Red Town Hall 2026 in Berlin
The Christmas Market at the Red Town Hall, officially known as Berliner Weihnachtszeit, transforms the square between the historic Rotes Rathaus and St. Mary’s Church into one of the capital’s festive highlights. With Old Berlin backdrops, a large ice rink surrounding the Neptune Fountain and a 50-metre Ferris wheel, the market offers a unique mix of nostalgia, fun and Christmas atmosphere. Admission is free; exact dates for 2026 have not yet been announced and typically run from late November to late December.
Highlights & Attractions at Christmas Market at the Red Town Hall in Berlin
- Large circular ice rink directly around the Neptune Fountain – for daytime skating and evening ice shows
- 50-metre panoramic Ferris wheel with heated gondolas and spectacular views across Berlin to the Brandenburg Gate and Radio Tower
- Old Berlin market alley with authentic 19th-century façade scenery and traditional crafts
- Storytellers, puppeteers, street artists and historic carousels for the whole family
- Daily arrival of Santa Claus flying through the air on his sleigh (usually at 16:30, 18:30 and 20:30)
- Wide range of mulled wine, roasted almonds, bratwurst and other Christmas specialities
- Central location within sight of the TV Tower and only a short walk from Alexanderplatz
Program & Schedule: What to Expect in 2026
The market thrives on its lively mix of classic Christmas market and light fairground elements. During the day visitors can skate on the ice rink around the Neptune Fountain or explore the nostalgic rides and the Old Berlin alley. In the evening the lighting of the historic scenery and the Ferris wheel creates a special atmosphere. Storytellers and puppeteers perform regularly, and Santa Claus flies over the market several times a day on his sleigh. Typical opening hours from previous years were Monday to Friday 12:00–22:00 and Saturday and Sunday 11:00–22:00 (closed on Christmas Eve).
Tickets & Admission for Christmas Market at the Red Town Hall Berlin
Admission to the Christmas Market at the Red Town Hall is free of charge. Ice skating on the rink around the Neptune Fountain usually costs around 5 euros plus optional skate hire. A ride on the Ferris wheel is also subject to a fee; VIP gondolas with champagne and canapés are available at an extra charge. Food and drinks are sold at the stalls at standard market prices. Please check current prices and exact dates on the official pages shortly before the season.
Visitor Tips: Travel & Accommodation in Berlin
- Best reached by public transport: U-Bahn U5 (Rotes Rathaus station) or S-/U-Bahn Alexanderplatz – the market is only a few minutes’ walk away.
- Dress warmly and weatherproof; it can be windy and cold on the open ice rink and on the Ferris wheel. Gloves and sturdy shoes are recommended.
- Book accommodation in Mitte or near Alexanderplatz early, as the central location is in high demand during the pre-Christmas period.
- For families an afternoon visit is worthwhile, when the ice rink is less crowded and the children’s attractions can be enjoyed more relaxed.
- Combine the market visit with a stroll to the nearby Nikolaiviertel or a view of the illuminated TV Tower.
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.
