Christmas markets 2025: Discover insider tips and highlights in NRW!

Christmas markets 2025: Discover insider tips and highlights in NRW!

The festive season is just around the corner and North Rhine-Westphalia has an impressive selection of Christmas markets that stand out from the usual offerings. While the people of Cologne are looking forward to the popular harbor Christmas market, which is open daily from November 14th to December 23rd, 2025 from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. and on Fridays and Saturdays until 10 p.m., numerous other markets invite regions to enjoy the culinary and craft offerings of the Christmas season. Entry to the harbor Christmas market is free and immerses visitors in a maritime atmosphere with a Ferris wheel, ship sails and shanties. It's getting festive at Am Chocolate Museum 1a, 50678 Cologne!

Another special Christmas market takes place in Recklinghausen, where people work underground. On December 13th and 14th, 2025, visitors can discover regional crafts and delicious culinary delicacies at 50 stands at Wanner Straße 30, 45661 Recklinghausen from 12 p.m. to 8 p.m. (Sunday until 6 p.m.). Entry here costs 5 euros, children up to 14 years of age have free access.

Variety of Christmas markets

In Monschau, however, the traditional Christmas market will be celebrated from November 28th to December 21st, 2025. The glittering hustle and bustle takes place at the address Markt, 52156 Monschau. On Fridays and Saturdays from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. and on Sundays from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m., visitors can enjoy the festive atmosphere - admission is even free. Here, guests can expect 33 tranquil wooden stands, a gnome trail for children and a historic carousel that will make little visitors' hearts beat faster. Santa Claus is also always a welcome guest in Monschau!

For those looking for a little more glitz and glamor, the St. Nicholas Market at Hugenpoet Castle in Essen is just the right destination. On the 28th-30th November and 5th-7th December 2025, the castle will become a festive backdrop, open from 4 p.m. to 10 p.m. (Fridays) and 12 p.m. to 8 p.m. (Sundays). With an entry price of 10 euros, which includes a glass of mulled wine, both adults and children up to 12 years can enjoy free of charge.

Tradition and experience

Another highlight is the Christmas market in Hilchenbach, which will fill the streets with an oversized Advent calendar and a varied stage program from December 12th to 14th, 2025. Here, visitors can experience the Christmas atmosphere on the various event days without admission. An atmospheric atmosphere is offered every day at the address Markt 12, 57271 Hilchenbach.

In Mülheim an der Ruhr you can enjoy the boat Christmas market fun in the craft market and various children's activities from November 28th to 30th, 2025. Admission is free, and the atmospheric atmosphere at Alte Schleuse 22, 45468 Mülheim an der Ruhr ensures contemplative moments. The Christmas market in Kamp-Lintfort also attracts visitors from the 27th to the 30th. November and 4th-7th December with a colorful stage program and other attractions, while admission also remains free.

No matter which market you choose, the variety and special ambience of the Christmas markets in North Rhine-Westphalia offer something for every taste. From culinary delights to artisanal delicacies to Christmas fun for the whole family – there is something for everyone here. Also visit the online platform of Drewno for special offers in the field of wood processing that will also make the hearts of DIY enthusiasts beat faster!