Christmas market in Bernkastel-Kues

The Christmas market in Bernkastel-Kues combines festive tradition with extraordinary experiences, winter romance, and culinary enjoyment. Visitors can look forward to special attractions such as the torch swimming and a festive fireworks display. Another highlight is the largest advent calendar in the Moselle region, while the St. Nicholas hike invites families to an active Christmas experience. Of course, for foodies, the distinctive Riesling mulled wine is one of the market's special specialties.

More than 40 festively decorated Christmas stalls are spread across the medieval old town of Bernkastel. The offerings range from traditional handicrafts to jewelry and candles, as well as nostalgic and extraordinary gift ideas. Culinary wishes are also fulfilled: Whether flammkuchen, hearty stews, fragrant waffles, sweet crêpes, or hot mulled wine – everyone can find the right treat for a cozy stroll through the beautifully decorated streets.

A very special experience awaits visitors with the torch swimming in and through the Moselle. Year after year, more than 100 sport divers brave the icy waters of the Moselle to accompany St. Nicholas on his way from the Kues harbor to the Bernkastel riverbank. After his safe arrival, St. Nicholas distributes gifts to the young visitors – an impressive and heartwarming tradition.

Oversized and beautiful to behold is the largest advent calendar in the Moselle region. In the town square of Bernkastel, a new door opens every evening during Advent in the windows of the historic timber-framed house of the Adler pharmacy. The opening is accompanied by a festive artistic performance, a song, a poem, or a moving reading.

“Cast off!” is the call during the Advent weekends at the cozy Christmas cruises of the White Fleet. A boat trip on the Moselle is a special experience even in the cold season – especially when hot mulled wine and spicy Christmas pastries are served on board. This way, the winter Moselle landscape can be enjoyed leisurely from the water.

And of course, a festive fireworks display must not be missed. When it shines over the festively decorated old town of Bernkastel-Kues, the Christmas atmosphere becomes especially impressive. The appropriate musical accompaniment is also provided: Christmas melodies can be heard at various points in the old town and on the winter stage – not just on weekends. This makes a visit to the Christmas market in Bernkastel-Kues a memorable experience for the whole family.

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Christmas Market 2026 - the Highlights!

November 20: Start of the Christmas market

November 21: Festive opening

December 1 to 24: Oversized advent calendar at the town square

December 5: Traditional torch swimming

December 6: St. Nicholas comes to the Christmas market

December 19: Christmas fireworks with music

Every Thursday: Live music open air on the winter stage at Karlsbad Square