Essener Weihnachtsmarkt (Essen Christmas Market) transforms the heart of Essen, Germany into a festive wonderland from mid-November to December, with more than 200 wooden stalls offering handcrafted gifts, international specialties, and holiday treats. A defining feature is the city’s famous Festival of Lights, where dazzling illuminated artworks from around the world create a magical backdrop to the market. Blending traditional German charm with a cosmopolitan atmosphere, the Essen Christmas Market is one of the Ruhr region’s most beloved holiday traditions.
Start with a quick trip form. Weekend in Essen or a Ruhr region route—we’ll plan market stalls & Glühwein stops, the Essener Lichtwochen lights, and a walkable stay near Kennedyplatz.
Prefer to talk it through? Book a free intro call.
DATES & TIMES
• Season: 14 November – 23 December 2025. Official tourism page.
• Opening hours: daily 11:00–21:00; Fri–Sat 11:00–22:00. Exceptions: 16 Nov (Remembrance Day) 14:00–21:00; 23 Nov (Sunday of the Dead) closed. Hours (official).
• Essener Lichtwochen: city‑wide illuminations 26 Oct 2025 – 3 Jan 2026 overlap the market. Official Lichtwochen page.
LOCATION
• Where: Essen city center around Kennedyplatz, Kettwiger Straße, Burgplatz and nearby squares. Official overview.
• Main hub map: Kennedyplatz — Open in Google Maps.
TICKETS & ENTRY
• Open‑access: public market; no general pass required. Official site.
• Paid extras: rides, workshops, and special activities may charge individually.
GOOD TO KNOW
• Theme areas: includes a Medieval Market zone and international food/craft stalls. Official overview.
• Special highlight: WDR 2 Christmas Miracle on Burgplatz 13–17 Dec 2025. Details.
• Quiet Sundays: trading restrictions apply on Remembrance Day and Sunday of the Dead—see hours above.
Tell us your dates, who’s coming, and what else you’d like to see. We’ll suggest a Germany route that includes the Essener Weihnachtsmarkt at the right moment, with realistic travel days and comfortable home bases.
Prefer to start with a call? Book a free intro call.