WeihnachtsZauber at Gendarmenmarkt

Christmas Market at Gendarmenmarkt between German and French Cathedrals

The WeihnachtsZauber Gendarmenmarkt is one of Berlin’s most elegant Christmas markets and opens this year from November 23rd to December 31st, 2026. The market takes place on the renovated Gendarmenmarkt, framed by the German Cathedral, the French Cathedral, and the Konzerthaus, a backdrop that sets it apart from most other Christmas markets in the city. In the center of the square is the large arched stage, where a daily changing program runs. The Artistocrats, led by Martin van Bracht, present their newly staged WinterCircus Wonderland with acrobatics, comedy, and music. The Szilvia Wolf Ballet School performs classical and modern choreographies, and the Sonari Choir invites guests to sing along. Additionally, Berlin choirs, bands, as well as duos and solo artists, carry the program throughout the day. Off-stage, walk-acts mingle with visitors, creating interactions between the stalls. Every Monday evening, Europaabend (Europe Evening) invites guests to discover Europe’s cultural and artistic diversity and offers a stage to artists from all over Europe.

Handicrafts and Gastronomy in heated tents at Gendarmenmarkt

The heart of WeihnachtsZauber Gendarmenmarkt is the approximately 1,000 square meter, heated artisan tent. Here, artisans can be watched at work, experiencing how unique pieces are created from traditional techniques and high-quality materials. An ivory carver creates delicate miniatures from fossil mammoth, a flax embroiderer revives an almost forgotten craft, and intricate ceramics are made on the potter’s wheel. The diverse offerings range from glass, wood, and leather works to textiles and metal art, as well as unique jewelry from the workshops of gold and silversmiths. Special attractions also include the leather queen, the hat maker, and a woodcarver from Oberammergau.

Culinary-wise, WeihnachtsZauber also has a lot to offer: the gastronomy is divided into three areas, each unfolding its own charm. In the cozy, heated salon huts, guests can enjoy selected specialties in a protected atmosphere, also with prior reservation if desired. Lutter & Wegner spoils guests with German-Austrian classics and a view of the Christmas tree and nativity scene. The Kasermandl serves a traditional goose menu and Tyrolean delicacies, while Schwarze Heidi transforms her hut into a Swiss fondue parlor.

Those who prefer to dine amidst the market hustle and bustle will discover special culinary delights in the experience gastronomy: Lutter & Wegner’s champagne and delicatessen hut entices with rock oysters and caviar, Jasper’s with hearty raclette and refined schnitzel specialties. Sweet tooths will also get their money’s worth, from fruity apple crumble to golden-brown Kaiserschmarren and fragrant Baumkuchen, all the way to lovingly baked cookies.

Under the open sky, further winter delights await: freshly baked flatbread from the wood oven, freshly planed Käsespätzle, vegan grill specialties, roasted almonds, and hot chestnuts. A cup of mulled wine warms the hands while the gaze wanders over the festively lit stalls. Thus, WeihnachtsZauber Gendarmenmarkt combines traditional craftsmanship with diverse culinary delights, creating a place where enjoyment, encounters, and a Christmas atmosphere come together.