Barmbek

From mid-November to the end of December, the Barmbek Christmas Market takes place at Piazzetta-Ralph-Giordano, located right by Fuhlsbüttler Straße at the corner of Pestalozzistraße. The market features a variety of delicious food stalls (including vegan options), a children’s carousel, a photo booth, and a Christmas tree sale. A special highlight of this market is its rotating program of events, which includes live music, craft activities for children, and puppet theater. The Christmas market is wheelchair accessible.

Current opening hours:

Nov 20 – Dec 30, 2026

Eppendorf

Langenhorn

The annual fairy-tale production by the "Börner Speeldeel" in Langenhorn has become a real insider tip, offering a delightful way to get into the Christmas spirit. This amateur theater group stages its plays with plenty of humor, suspense, and a keen eye for detail. Their fairy-tale adventures are a wonderful experience for the whole family. Please note that the play will be performed at the "LaLi" venue for only two weekends, be sure to book your tickets in advance!

Current Showtimes:

Die goldene Feder

Nov 27–29, 2026

Dec 4–6, 2026

The Christmas market at LaHoMa Living Plaza (Langenhorner Markt) is quite small, featuring a stall for savory snacks, one for sweets, mulled wine, and a children’s carousel. What makes it special is the program of activities for children, which runs from Monday to Saturday. These include, on an alternating basis, Christmas baking sessions (in the morning) and a puppet show. The kale stall is highly recommended—you can even pick up a portion to take home. You also have the chance to meet Santa Claus in person. The market is open exclusively from Monday to Saturday and is fully accessible.

Current opening hours:

16.11.-29.12.2026

Our personal favorite Christmas market is located at Schmuggelstieg. This historical, medieval-themed Christmas market spans both the Hamburg and Norderstedt sides of the area. It is likely the only Christmas market in all of Germany that extends across two different federal states. For children, there is a straw fort and a carousel. You can also look forward to historical-style stalls, fire pits, and live music. On Saturday at 5:00 PM, there will be a lantern parade, led by the *Jugendspielmanns- und Musikzug Langenhorn e.V. Hamburg* (a youth marching band and musical ensemble).

Current opening dates:

December 11–13, 2026

 During Advent, the corner of Fritz-Schumacher-Allee and Hohe Liedt is especially sparkling and glittering. Here you can admire the most beautiful Christmas lights in Langenhorn. Giant inflatable figures, twinkling lights, and countless Christmas decorations will delight not only children. The Christmas House is a special highlight during Advent and can be admired daily from dusk onwards (weather permitting). Another Christmas garden is located on Hohe Liedt, near Porschpfad.

Lemsahl-Mellingstedt

 From Thursday to Friday, you can visit the enchanting little Christmas market at the Steigenberger Hotel Treudelberg Hamburg. In addition to a variety of culinary offerings (please note: there is a €5.00 deposit for cups; debit card payments are accepted), the market features a children’s carousel, various game stalls, and an ice-stock curling rink. There is also a Christmas craft activity for children (a participation fee applies). Furthermore, the market hosts special events for children, featuring surprise guests such as Santa Claus. Every Friday from 7:00 p.m., the cozy Christmas market turns into a "SKI Christmas Party" with a DJ. The market is fully accessible, and on-site parking is available (the first two hours are free of charge).

Current opening dates:

Nov 18 – Dec 20, 2026

Poppenbüttel

Flight to Santa Claus

at the AEZ

This December, the Alstertal Shopping Centre (AEZ) offers a truly special highlight: a free gondola ride to visit Santa Claus, an unforgettable experience for the whole family. At the AEZ, you can step into a festively decorated Christmas gondola and embark on a virtual journey to the North Pole. Before the trip begins, children can fill out a wish list to deliver to Santa Claus in person. Friendly elves at the shopping centre will help you board the gondola; once the doors close, your magical journey through a winter wonderland begins. You will arrive right in front of Santa’s house, where you can step into his cosy living room. There, children can hand over their wish lists, take photos with Santa, and even receive a small surprise as a keepsake. Afterwards, a magic door will lead you safely back into the AEZ. These free gondola rides are available throughout December, Monday to Saturday, from 12:00 PM to 7:00 PM. The attraction is fully accessible. Simply follow the festive tracks on the floor of the shopping centre to find your way directly to the gondola.

Current opening hours:

Not yet announced

Volksdorf

At the Volksdorf Museum Village, you can discover how people lived, resided, and worked 100 years ago, and learn about the importance of animal husbandry and the extent to which life was lived in harmony with nature. You’ll encounter various animals, including chickens that roam freely across the grounds. During the week, it’s a peaceful spot for a stroll; numerous information boards provide insight into the past, and you can even step inside some of the historic buildings. On weekends, the village shop, or "Krämerladen", is open, offering charming, handmade goods. The "Kaffeestuuv" (coffee parlor) is also open then, serving handcrafted coffee and delicious cakes, just like Grandma used to make. Dogs are welcome, provided they are kept on a leash. If you’re looking for something extra special, you can even book private carriage rides through the museum village. Public events are held several times throughout the year. The museum village is funded entirely by donations, and many of the staff are volunteers. Admission to the Volksdorf Museum Village is free. During the Advent season, you can purchase Christmas trees here; additionally, the Advent season is ushered in at the beginning of December with a wonderful pre-Christmas program.

Current opening hours:

December 5–6, 2026: Advent in the Village

The time has come: from November 6 to December 23, 2025, the magical Christmas world at Pflanzen-Kölle is open once again!

Immerse yourself in a festive wonderland filled with shimmering lights, sparkling decorations, and enchanting moments for the whole family. The extensive Christmas collection is showcased in an atmospheric, immersive exhibition, complete with photo spots that alone make a visit worthwhile! Younger guests are also well catered for: a lovingly designed "winter village" offers fantastic attractions, including regular puppet shows, a sledding run (please note: when we visited, the sledding was quite fast-paced, perhaps not ideal for very small children), a charming little fairy-tale train, and a bouncy castle. Please be aware that most of these activities require an additional fee. Elsewhere in the garden center, you’ll find a "story tree" that invites children to listen and dream. Regular craft sessions and a colorful coloring station round out the program, perfect for creative family moments during the Advent season. After your Christmas shopping, the cozy "Bambus-Café" (Bamboo Café) is the perfect place to relax; it offers delicious cakes and savory treats, as well as a children’s menu that doubles as a coloring page. Another highlight is the free indoor play area, which can be accessed via two entrances, one from the café and one from the main garden center (right by the checkout counters). Please note that the indoor play area is not visible from the outside. Dogs are welcome at Pflanzen-Kölle, and the entire garden center is fully accessible, making it ideal for families with strollers or visitors using wheelchairs.

Current opening hours:

Not yet available

Winterhude

This humorous Christmas-themed theatrical production for children and families delights audiences with plenty of wit, wonderful music, and a great attention to detail. The cast presents a modern and surprising twist on the classic fairy tale, one that captivates both children and adults alike. As an interactive children’s musical, the show invites the young audience to join in, ensuring that time flies by. With its imaginative staging, powerful messages, and heaps of fun, this Christmas fairy tale offers an unforgettable theatrical experience for the whole family. Recommended for ages 5 and up, perfect for a family outing to the theater during the holiday season. Accessible seating is available.

Current Performance Dates:

Der Froschkönig - Küssen verboten

Nov 26 – Dec 30, 2026

Altstadt

The large Christmas market in the city center is certainly not for the faint of heart. It gets extremely crowded on the weekends, so if you have the chance, try visiting the many smaller Christmas markets during the week instead. The market around St. Peter’s Church (St. Petri Kirche) is particularly lovely; it features a children’s carousel and small display cases containing fairy-tale characters. Another wonderful, larger market can be found at Gerhart-Hauptmann-Platz, near Alstertor. It offers a carousel and a small fairy-tale area for the little ones, and with a bit of luck, you might even meet Santa Claus himself! A life-sized nativity scene and a towering Christmas tree adorned with over a thousand candles serve as the market’s landmarks. The historic Christmas market in front of the Town Hall (Rathaus) is not only stunningly beautiful, but it’s also where Santa Claus makes an appearance: every day at 4:00 PM, 6:00 PM, and 8:00 PM, he tells the story of Rudolph and waves to all the children (and adults!) from his sleigh. This market is organized by Roncalli, though it can become nearly impossible to navigate during peak hours. For those using a wheelchair, the "White Magic" (Weißer Zauber) market at Jungfernstieg is the most accessible and comfortable option. The market at Gänsemarkt charms visitors with its "little village" atmosphere, complete with gingerbread-style houses. A true highlight is the Christmas parade, held every Saturday during Advent at 2:00 PM and 5:00 PM; it travels from Mönckebergstraße (near the Saturn store) along Bergstraße to Jungfernstieg, before heading back again. With fantastic dancers and elaborately decorated floats, it’s guaranteed to get you into the Christmas spirit. A pro tip: wait for the parade at Jungfernstieg, it’s generally a bit less crowded there.

Current opening hours:

Gänsemarkt: Nov 18 – Dec 23, 2026

Spitalerstraße: Nov 18 – Dec 23, 2026

Weißerzauber: Nov 19 – Dec 23, 2026

Rathausmarkt: Nov 23 – Dec 23, 2026

Petri Kirche: Nov 18 – Dec 23, 2026

Märchenschiffe: Nov 26 – Dec 23, 2026

Most Christmas markets are closed on Nov 22, 2026, Christmas Eve, and both days of Christmas.

Bergedorf

The charming, rustic Bergedorf Christmas market, with its Scandinavian flair, is located right in front of Bergedorf Castle. In the red wooden huts, you can discover a variety of gift ideas, indulge in culinary treats, or warm up by one of the many fire pits. A special highlight for children is the "Villa Kunterbunt" (Villa Villekulla), nestled within a small grove of fir trees. Thanks to a diverse range of free activities, children can enjoy crafts, baking, and various games. The Villa Kunterbunt is heated. The market also features small carousels and claw-machine arcade games. Furthermore, Santa Claus visits every Wednesday and Saturday from 3:00 p.m. You can find him in "Santa’s Living Room", a large hut designed like a Scandinavian fireside lounge. On Tuesday and Thursday afternoons, Scandinavian Christmas stories are read aloud in this same hut. On weekends, various artists perform on the cultural stage, and it is also well worth visiting the castle courtyard, which hosts a rotating selection of artisan craft stalls. The market grounds feature some slight elevation changes, and the surface consists of wood chips. Wheelchair users can call for assistance upon arrival. The Christmas market opens daily at 11:00 a.m.

Current opening hours:

Nov 20 – Dec 30, 2026, 11:00 a.m. – 9:00 p.m.

HafenCity

St. Georg

Uhlenhorst

Wandsbek

The "Wandsbek Winter Magic" (Wandsbeker Winterzauber) returns to the Wandsbek marketplace. A special feature is the LIKE-ICE skating rink, made from an innovative synthetic material that is both energy-neutral and environmentally friendly. The rink can be used for ice skating, ice hockey, and "Eisstockschießen" (a traditional Alpine sport similar to curling). There is also a small ramp, which is particularly popular with children. Those who feel unsteady on ice skates can rent "gliders" instead, simple attachments that strap onto regular shoes. Adults accompanying their children can be provided with shoe covers. School classes and daycare groups enjoy free admission to the rink (with prior registration). The "winter village" consists of Alpine-style huts, decorated with many charming details; the "Almhütte" (Alpine hut) can also be reserved for Christmas parties. You will find everything from mulled wine ("Glühwein") to savory treats. A mailbox for letters to Santa and a children’s carousel round out the Christmas market offerings.



Current opening hours:

Oct 31, 2026 – Jan 1, 2027: 12:00 PM – 10:00 PM

From Dec 24, 2026: 12:00 PM – 9:00 PM

(Please note that opening hours may vary on public holidays, 

Christmas Eve, and New Year’s Eve.)

Altona-Altstadt

The grand Christmas show at the First Stage Theater is highly recommended; be sure to book your tickets early, as they tend to sell out quickly. The show and the atmosphere will transport you into an enchanting Christmas world. The auditorium offers a great view from every seat, and accessible seating is also available. A cozy bar, offering a selection of food and drinks, including delicious "Flammkuchen" (tarte flambée), rounds out the experience. You can reserve a table for the intermission before the show begins, ensuring your drinks are ready and waiting for you. Please note that jackets and larger bags must be left at the cloakroom. There is no parking available, so traveling by public transport is recommended.

Current Schedule:

Die große Weihnachtsshow 2026

Nov 1 – Dec 27, 2026

Dinner for One

Dec 28 – Dec 31, 2026

Bahrenfeld

The "Winterspektakel" (Winter Spectacular) in Bahrenfeld is an absolute must-do during the Christmas season. From mid-December to early January, you can experience this winter event, set in a unique circus-like atmosphere at the Bahrenfeld harness racing track (Trabrennbahn Bahrenfeld). The grounds, featuring both indoor and outdoor areas, offer a variety of carousels for all ages, a food court serving everything from sweet treats to savory dishes, and a thrilling performance inside the show tent. The show lasts approximately 70 minutes, and it’s clear that the performers, acrobats, artists, and dancers, are genuinely enjoying themselves. The performance is accompanied by a live band. The fairground and food court are open for one hour before the show and two hours after it. There are numerous free play areas for children, while the "disco dome" transforms into a dance floor for adults following the evening performances. The entire event is fully accessible. The admission price covers the show and entry to the grounds; carousels, other attractions, and food/drink purchases require separate payment. You can purchase coins for the attractions at the ticket counter in advance, while food and drinks can be paid for via debit card, or you can book a pre-arranged package that bundles everything you need (a more cost-effective option). Children up to the age of three are admitted free of charge. Ample free parking is available on the grounds of the Bahrenfeld harness racing track. The venue is also available for hosting Christmas parties.

https://winterspektakel.de/

Current opening dates:

Dec 12 – Dec 27, 2026

Eimsbüttel

Harvestehude

Hoheluft East

At St. Mark’s Church (St. Markus Kirche), you will find the small yet delightful Christmas market, "Adventszeit St. Markus." Immerse yourself in a cozy, festive atmosphere, complete with a selection of culinary treats and a carousel for the little ones. On select days, the market is further enlivened by roaming performers, live music, and after-work events, ensuring plenty of entertainment and holiday spirit. This intimate Christmas market is the perfect destination for families, friends, and anyone looking for a relaxing break. For book lovers, there is also a book-sharing shelf where you can discover new reads or pass on one of your own favorite books. "Adventszeit St. Markus" is the ideal place to share in the anticipation of the Christmas season!

Current opening hours:

Nov 24 – Dec 22, 2026

Monday to Wednesday: 3:00 PM – 9:00 PM

Thursday to Friday: 3:00 PM – 10:00 PM

Saturday: 12:00 PM – 10:00 PM

Sunday: 12:00 PM – 9:00 PM

Osdorf

When the Loki Schmidt Garden goes to sleep… the magic awakens! After dark, the botanical garden transforms into the Christmas Garden Hamburg, a luminous winter wonderland filled with sparkling light art and glittering Christmas dreams. Follow an accessible circular path through impressive installations, discover mysterious worlds, and leave your heartfelt wishes at the magical wishing tree. Accompanied by atmospheric music, every step becomes an enchanting experience. Along the way, you’ll find cozy stations offering delicious winter snacks and hot drinks. Strollers and pull-along wagons are, of course, welcome! Wheelchairs are also available to borrow free of charge (against a deposit). Additional restrooms, including accessible facilities, are provided for your convenience. Tickets can be easily purchased online, with flexible pricing options to suit everyone. A pro tip: book in advance to save! We also offer family tickets and special "family days," featuring extra surprises for visitors of all ages. Children under 5 enjoy free admission. Please note that dogs are not permitted.

Current opening hours:

Nov 13, 2026 – Jan 10, 2027

Family days: Nov 18, Nov 25, Dec 2, Dec 9, Dec 16, 2026; Jan 6, 2027

Rotherbaum

Located in the heart of Rotherbaum, the "Christ Grindel" Christmas market invites you to linger and enjoy its cozy, rock-inspired atmosphere. Treat yourself to a variety of culinary offerings and let the unique, slightly edgy vibe enchant you. On select dates, you can enjoy live rock and pop music, as well as learn more about the work of "Doctors Without Borders" (Médecins Sans Frontières). A Christmas tree sale rounds out the selection. For younger visitors, there is a children’s carousel, and on Saturdays and Sundays, a free arts and crafts tent offers hands-on activities. The Christ Grindel Christmas market is situated right in front of the Abaton Cinema.



Current opening hours:

Nov 14 – Dec 22, 2026

Monday to Friday: 2:30 PM – 10:00 PM

Saturday: 12:00 PM – 10:00 PM

Sunday: 12:00 PM – 8:00 PM

Nov 22, 2026: 5:00 PM – 9:00 PM

St. Pauli

Hamburg’s most exciting Christmas market is located right on the Spielbudenplatz. It offers everything you would expect from a traditional Christmas market, with the addition of a few erotic gift ideas. There is certainly no shortage of glitz and glamour here! On Mondays, you can even get "unicorn mulled wine" at the "Glühweinapotheke" (mulled wine pharmacy). The market is wheelchair-accessible (the ground is covered in wood chips) and admission is free. The show stage hosts a varied musical program every day. From Thursday to Saturday, there are also strip shows on stage (at 9:30 PM, 10:30 PM, and 11:30 PM). The market often stays open until midnight.

Current opening dates:

Nov 9 – Dec 23, 2026

From October to March, you have the opportunity to go ice skating or play "Eisstockschießen" (a traditional Alpine version of curling) with friends at Europe’s largest open-air ice rink. Located in the Planten un Blomen park, the EisArena Hamburg is open daily and offers a wonderful, festive winter atmosphere. You can glide across the ice to the sound of popular music. Ice skates are available for rent on-site (in sizes 24 to 49), or you can bring your own (a skate-sharpening service is also available). Skating aids can be rented as well. Please note: wearing gloves is mandatory while on the ice. The venue hosts a variety of regular events, from live DJs to concerts, ensuring there is something for everyone. You can also book the EisArena Hamburg for children’s birthday parties or private events. The Park Café offers a selection of snacks and meals, as well as delicious mulled wine ("Glühwein") and non-alcoholic fruit punch for children.

https://www.eisarena-hamburg.de

Current opening hours:

October 24, 2026 – March 2027



Located directly on Spielbudenplatz, next to the Davidwache police station, lies the St. Pauli Theater, the oldest private theater in Hamburg and one of the oldest theaters in Germany. The somewhat narrow path leading to the auditorium creates an intimate, almost secretive atmosphere, which gives way to a delightful surprise upon entering the main hall. There are 533 seats spread across three levels, with the seating on the lowest level also being elevated. The theater offers four wheelchair-accessible spaces and provides barrier-free access via the side of the building. Booster seats are available for children. The program is highly diverse, ranging from classic and contemporary plays, musical theater, cabaret, and comedy to readings, concerts, and even a Christmas fairy tale. A small bar rounds out the theater’s amenities.

Current performance dates:

Nils Holgersson, Nov 25 – Dec 21, 2026

The Hamburger DOM is a public fair in Hamburg that attracts several million visitors annually across three seasonal editions: the Winter DOM (early November to early December), the Spring DOM (mid-March to mid-April), and the Summer DOM (late July to late August). Since 1893, the fair has been held at the Heiligengeistfeld. More than 260 showmen and 110 food and beverage vendors offer a wide variety of attractions across the approximately 160,000-square-meter fairgrounds. Every Wednesday, the "Family DOM" features discounted prices. Additionally, when the weather is good, you can meet "Bummel", the DOM bear, by the Ferris wheel on Wednesdays (from 4:00 PM to 6:00 PM) and Sundays (from 3:00 PM to 5:00 PM). A grand fireworks display takes place every Friday at 10:30 PM. Many stalls and attractions are already designed to be accessible, and staff, particularly in the food and beverage sector, are very helpful. Dogs are not permitted at the Hamburger DOM.

Upcoming dates:

November 6 – December 6, 2026

Located between the Schmidt Theater and Schmidts Tivoli, the "sechsundzwanzig" (twenty-six) wine garden invites you to relax and linger. In this lovely, tranquil garden, featuring a level, accessible surface covered in wood chips, guests can enjoy "Flammkuchen" (tarte flambée) and other light bites, complemented by an extensive wine list. There is also a small, sheltered play area for children. During the winter season, "sechsundzwanzig" transforms into a "Glühwein" (mulled wine) garden, complete with covered seating and a festive winter atmosphere. A 12-meter-long "Eisstockschießen" (Bavarian curling) rink, which can be reserved online, rounds out the winter offerings. The wine garden is open Tuesday through Sunday.

Upcoming dates:

From November 3, 2026

Looking for a bit of a holiday vibe in Hamburg all year round? Then the beach club StrandPauli, located at St. Pauli Hafenstraße 89, is the perfect spot for you. While the large outdoor area serves up delicious cocktails and grilled dishes during the summer, the indoor space offers a cozy setting in the winter, complete with mulled wine and fondue (available for two or more people). You can take in the stunning harbor view and let your mind wander to distant places. There are also games available indoors for children to enjoy. A particular highlight is the annual children’s festival in the autumn, where little ones can spend a fantastic, exciting day at StrandPauli, completely free of charge. From November 1st until mid-February, a winter market, featuring Bavarian curling (Eisstockschießen), opens in the outdoor area. Please note that the beach club is not wheelchair accessible. Admission is free all year round. You can also rent StrandPauli for your own events and celebrations. Dogs are not permitted at StrandPauli.

Winter season:

Early November to the end of March

Our personal favorite Christmas market is located at Schmuggelstieg. This historical, medieval-themed market spans both the Hamburg and Norderstedt sides of the area, likely making it the only Christmas market in all of Germany that stretches across two federal states. For children, there is a straw fort and a carousel. You can also look forward to historical-style stalls, fire pits, and live music. The market is open on Friday from 2:00 PM to 11:00 PM, Saturday from 11:00 AM to 11:00 PM, and Sunday from 11:00 AM to 7:00 PM. On Saturday at 5:00 PM, there will also be a lantern parade, led by the "Jugendspielmanns- und Musikzug Langenhorn e.V. Hamburg" (a youth marching band and musical ensemble).

Current opening dates:

December 11–13, 2026