It’s that time of year again – the season for Glühwein, roasted almonds, and Christmas markets. So, if you’re around the city and looking celebrate, let me introduce you to all there is to see and do in this magical city throughout the month of December. Welcome to the Düsseldorf Christmas Markets.
Get to know the Christmas season in Düsseldorf
If you’re new to Germany, you might not know that there’s a lot more tradition to Christmas than just the markets. Before the holidays begin a lot of people start to embrace the almighty “Gänseessen” which is a feast that often includes roasted goose, Knödel, gravy, and red cabbage. Gänseessen might take place more than once, perhaps first with your colleagues, then with your friends, and then with family. It’s also often sold at many restaurants around town, so some people opt into eating goose the whole week long. It’s typically to celebrate St. Martin’s Day but often leads into the Christmas holidays.
It’s also popular to make an outing out of picking a Christmas tree for your home. There are many places to cut your own Christmas tree in Düsseldorf, or you can often find a smaller one at one of the local Christmas tree markets around your neighborhood.
Operating Times of the Dusseldorf Christmas Markets
The opening dates of the Düsseldorf Christmas Markets are constantly changing year by year, but are starting to stay open longer and longer into the season. All the Christmas markets across the city run from November 18th to December 30th this year (2021). The markets cannot be missed as they’re cheerfully presented at all the main points in the city… which brings me to my next point… where?
Where are the Dusseldorf Christmas Markets?
You’re going to have to spend more than just a day exploring the city if you want to visit all the beautiful Christmas markets. Sometimes when the weather isn’t so great (welcome to winter) I spend a few hours on the streetcar, window shopping past all the markets. Here’s a list of the biggest Christmas markets around from last year (many of them should still be active for years to come too):
Christmas Market in the Market Square/Burgplatz “Handwerker-Markt”
You’ve likely passed by here before, the town hall of Düsseldorf turns from an empty square into a winter wonderland. Each Christmas market looks a little different, and they all have some very unique pieces. My favorite part about the Market Square location is the woodworking station by the entrance. You can hang around with your mulled wine and hot cocoa watching the creators mold incredible wooden structures for the holidays. Don’t forget to take a ride on the Wheel of Vision while you’re there.
Heinrich-Heine-Allee’s “Little Angels’ Market”
All the market stalls are decked out in beautiful lights and white accents to match the angels’ theme. You’ll enter smelling the delicious scent of roasted chestnuts and continue through the market for some mulled wine and a little one-of-a-kind shopping. If you’re looking for a unique gift, whether it be candles, toys, plates, bowls, or pillows… it’s all here!
NOTE: If you come at an odd hour there might actually be a spot for you at the music pavilion for a beverage and an awesome overview of the market stalls.
“Sternchenmarkt”
The meaning in English is “little stars market,” but if I write that in the title you might not find it properly. There is a huge sign at the entrance titled “Sternchenmarkt.” This market is a great place for eating, snacking, and drinking. There are a few stands with Christmas gifts and goodies, but the food here is incredible. It is located in the small Wilhelm-Marx-Haus courtyard.
Flinger Straße Christmas Market
There is a market stand at this Christmas market with incredible mulled wine, cherry mulled wine, hot cocoa, and egg liquor. There is also a creperie right next to it, so I can foresee you spending just as much time here as I typically do. The market stand has a pyramid on top with some of the stars around the city – you won’t miss it. Most of the stalls on this street are designed to look like old traditional Düsseldorf homes.
Schadowplatz Christmas Market (Schadow-Markt) & Schadow Straße
If you’re looking to do some real shopping, Schadowplatz is the place to be. In addition to the large shops and malls around the area, this Christmas Market offers a beautiful white Christmas filled with mulled wine (both red and white). This market has been carefully designed to include both high-class fashion and a beautiful Christmas experience.
Märchen Markt Christmas Market & Königsallee
There’s an ice rink in the center of the Christmas Market – I know, right? You’ll find all there is to eat and drink here including mulled wine, potato pancakes, roasted chestnuts, and the famous ooey-gooey cheesy goodness – raclette. This is a great market for the whole family. You’ll also find it stretched this year along the entire Königsallee with even more seasonal food and drink to enjoy.
NEW: Kö-Bögen Markt
The Kö-Bogen Christmas Market recently changed locations and is now located at the Gustaf-Gründgens-Platz. Nestled cozily between the Kö-Bogen II and Düsseldorf’s Schauspielhaus, you’ll be able to enjoy the beautifully renovated space all season long.
PREVIOUSLY IN DÜSSELDORF: Nordic Christmas Market at Stahlwerk
Stahlwerk was presenting their Nordic Christmas Market. When you’re ready for some new foods and finds for the holidays, Stahlwerk opened their doors from December 1st – December 11th (starting at 5:00 pm). Check Stahlwerk’s website each year to see if they’re hosting a new event.
Don’t forget, there are many others scattered around the outskirts of the old town as well including Benrath Schloss, Weihnachtsdorf in Unterbilk, Weihnachtsmarkt an der Nordstrasse, and many more!
Which Dusseldorf Christmas Market will you be visiting this year?
Still looking for gifts? Check out some of the coolest locally made products in Düsseldorf! Otherwise, here are a few other suggestions: consider ordering some fresh flowers straight to their door, shop online at local favorites like Butlers (online and all over the city), Zalando (where most Germans shop for stylish wear), or Wayfair (my personal favorite), forget the material gifts this year and buy your loved ones a coupon or experience, or make a photobook.
