It is one of the most beautiful Christmas markets in northern Germany - in Osnabrück's historic city centre between the market and the cathedral. Special highlights: The night watchman climbs the St Mary's Church tower with guests for a panoramic Advent view. Father Christmas also climbs out of the clouds from up there.
History of the Osnabrück Christmas market
The first Osnabrück Christmas market took place around 180 years ago. In a letter dated 4 November 1836, it is noted that "craftsmen, cake bakers and all those who trade in short goods are allowed to publicly exhibit goods for sale in the old town hall 8 days before Christmas."
Since then, a lot has happened: today, the historic Christmas market in Osnabrück extends over the market square in front of the medieval-looking backdrop of the town hall, city scales and St. Mary's Church as well as the cathedral forecourt. The historic ensemble casts a spell over visitors and arouses their curiosity about what once was and what can be discovered today. First and foremost is the famous town hall in late Gothic style, on whose steps the Peace of Westphalia was proclaimed in 1648, ending the Thirty Years' War.
So things are peaceful in the city. And without much fanfare. This is why Osnabrück's Christmas market is called "quiet": the only musical accompaniment is the historic carousel in front of the town hall. Generations of Osnabrückers have already taken a spin on this more than 100-year-old ride. In addition to traditional attractions, there are also record-breaking attractions to discover: the largest nutcracker at a Christmas market at six metres high or the world's largest functioning music box with life-size figures.
This year, the Christmas market opens on 25 November and ends on 22 December 2024.
Please inquire on the homepages or directly in the respective houses about the current opening and event times, prices, cancellations, etc.. This information can change at short notice!
