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Welcome to the Wismar Christmas Market 2026 in Wismar
The traditional Wismar Christmas Market takes place from 23 November to 20 December 2026 on the historic market square in the heart of the UNESCO World Heritage Old Town. Elegantly framed by the illuminated town hall, the water feature and the old gabled houses, the square transforms into a festive Advent atmosphere. Daily from 11:00 to 20:00 (Friday and Saturday until 21:00), Swedish-inspired chalets invite visitors to stroll, eat and browse.
Highlights & Attractions at Wismar Christmas Market in Wismar
- Historic market square with Swedish-style Christmas chalets and views of the town hall and water feature
- Fairy-tale forest with witch’s house and characters from the Brothers Grimm right next to the water feature
- Children’s Christmas market with rides, craft hut for pottery, felting and painting plus a wish letterbox
- Varied stage programme from Friday to Sunday with live music, fairy-tale hours and clown shows
- Culinary specialities such as mulled wine, hot sea buckthorn juice, game and elk sausages, Mutzen and lard sandwiches
- Handicrafts from Thuringia and the Ore Mountains as well as Swedish products and regional souvenirs
- Atmospheric lighting throughout the UNESCO Old Town and maritime additions at the Old Harbour
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Program & Schedule: What to Expect in 2026
The Wismar Christmas Market on the market square forms the centre of the Advent season. The traditional opening takes place on the first Saturday with the reception of Santa Claus at the Old Harbour followed by a carriage ride to the market square, where the official opening is held at 14:00. From Friday to Sunday the stage provides entertainment with live music and children’s shows. The fairy-tale forest and the separate children’s area with craft activities and rides make the market particularly family-friendly.
Traditional Art Market St. Georgen
From 11 to 13 December 2026 the Traditional Art Market takes place inside the impressive St. Georgen Church. Regional artists and craftspeople present wood artworks, jewellery, ceramics, felt items and products made of metal, leather, glass and paper. The Gothic church interior creates a unique setting. Opening hours: Friday 15:00–18:00, Saturday 10:00–18:00, Sunday 10:00–17:00.
Sternenwald Wismar at the Old Harbour
From November 2026 until January 2027 the Sternenwald at the Old Harbour shines with around 180 festively illuminated Nordmann firs, glowing gates and the popular star hut. Visitors enjoy mulled wine, hot drinks, sausages, fish & chips, roasted almonds and waffles with a harbour view. Opening hours: Sunday to Thursday 12:00–21:00, Friday and Saturday 12:00–22:00. Admission is free.
Seemannsweihnacht / Maritime Christmas Market
Mid-December 2026 (around the 3rd Advent, expected on 13 December) the traditional Seemannsweihnacht takes place at the Old Harbour. The highlight is the light parade of illuminated fishing boats and traditional sailing vessels on the Wismar Bay, accompanied by a service, shanty choir and St. Nicholas. Crackling fires, mulled wine and maritime atmosphere characterise this unique event.
Tickets & Admission for Wismar Christmas Market Wismar
Admission to the Wismar Christmas Market on the market square, the Sternenwald and the Seemannsweihnacht is free of charge. Costs only arise for food, drinks and optional rides or craft activities. Typical prices for mulled wine and specialities are in the lower to mid single-digit euro range. The art market in St. Georgen Church is also free entry. Official information and current details are available on the city’s websites and at ostsee.de.
Visitor Tips: Travel & Accommodation in Wismar
- Arrival by train to Wismar station is recommended; the market square is within walking distance in the Old Town. By car, parking is available at the station and in the surrounding area (day tickets are inexpensive).
- Dress warmly and weatherproof – it can be windy and damp on the Baltic coast. Sturdy shoes and layered clothing are ideal.
- Book accommodation in the Old Town or at the harbour early, as the Advent season in the UNESCO city is very popular.
- Combine your visit with a stroll through the illuminated Old Town and an evening trip to the Sternenwald for the best light atmosphere.
- Arrive early on opening day and Advent weekends to avoid crowds and experience Santa Claus.
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.
