Essen’s industrial heritage, typified by the UNESCO World Heritage Zollverein, contrasts beautifully with the city’s festive glow in winter and the Essen Christmas Market.
In the following sections, you’ll find details on what to expect at this year’s event, from the unconfirmed dates, opening times and regional specialties.
Essen Christmas Market
The city’s iconic industrial sites and parks are decorated in festive lights, contrasting the old and the new.
Unlike many other German markets, Essen stands out for its diverse international stalls, featuring more than 20 countries represented with unique crafts and food.
In the city centre, Kennedyplatz is filled with an enchanting forest of 450 fir trees, all illuminated with twinkling lights. The ice skating rink is an additional highlight.
Dates and Location
Essen Christmas Market dates: 15th November to 23rd December 2024 (unconfirmed).
Location: Kennedyplatz
Opening times: Sunday to Thursday: 11am to 9pm. Friday and Saturday: 11am – 10pm.
Christmas Day: Closed.
Admission: Free, no tickets required.
Christmas lights: Yes, switch on date: 15th November (unconfirmed).
Santa: Yes, but limited times.
Ice skating: Yes, at Kennedyplatz.
Vegetarian: Yes, plenty of options.
Vegan: Yes, plenty of options.
Gluten-free: Yes, but limited.
Accessible: Yes.
Pet-friendly: Yes, dogs are allowed on a lead.
Parking: Please take public transport to help limit congestion.
Reason to visit: International stalls and the decorated fir tree forest.
Recommended tour: A bus tour is a great introduction to the city.
Specialities: Westphalian sandwiches, kartoffelpuffer, marzipan and hot apple cider.
Where to stay: NH Essen is well located, 3-minutes from Kennedyplatz.
Convenient Hotels
Essen-Stadtkern is the city’s historic centre. Staying here will put you within walking distance of the main attractions and events.
I recommend the NH Essen Hotel in this area. I’ve stayed at NH hotels on several occasions, which are always convenient and comfortable.
Read my guide to exploring the best Christmas markets in Germany for more ideas on where to go this year.
Event Location
What to Expect
Food Specialties
- Bratwurst: A classic German sausage made from ground pork and seasoned with various spices, often served with sauerkraut or mustard.
- Kartoffelpuffer: Grated potato pancakes that are fried until crispy, usually served with applesauce or sour cream.
- Lebkuchen: A traditional decorated gingerbread that you’ll see hanging from stalls.
- Glühwein: Classic mulled wine.
- Stollen: A sweet, fruit-filled bread similar to fruitcake, often dusted with powdered sugar.
- Gebrannte Mandeln: Candied almonds roasted with sugar and cinnamon.
- Marzipan: A sweet almond paste often shaped into various figures and shapes.
- Käsespätzle: A type of small noodle topped with melted cheese and caramelized onions.
Essen’s official website might be useful if you’re planning a trip to the city as they share information on local attractions, events, dining options and things to do. Be sure to check it out before your visit.
Sustainability Tips
- Consider staying in an eco-friendly hotel that uses renewable energy as its electricity source.
- Plan your meals carefully and buy only what you need to avoid food waste. Look for smaller portions or share with a friend.
- Choose locally sourced and organic foods to support local farmers and sustainable food production.
- Try to eat more plant-based meals, as meat production significantly contributes to emissions.
- When attending events or shopping, take public transport or ride-sharing services instead of driving alone. If the weather permits, walk or ride a bike to get around.
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Recommendations are independently chosen based on personal travel experiences and extensive research.
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