The name means “Mountain of the Emperor” in German, and the Kaysersberg Christmas Market lives up to the billing. Only 30 artisans are selected each year by the local association, and their hand-carved wooden chalets, each topped with a unique illustrated panel, line the lanes behind the Sainte-Croix church in what Alsace locals consider one of the region’s most authentic markets.
Kaysersberg Christmas Market 2026
Dates and Location
Status: Confirmed
Kaysersberg dates: 27th November to 20th December 2026
Last checked: July 2026
Source: Visit Alsace
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Travel tip: Market only runs Friday to Sunday – check dates before visiting.
Location: Cour de l’Arsenal and behind Sainte-Croix church. Christmas farmers’ market at Place de la Mairie.
Opening times: Friday to Sunday: 10am to 8pm.
Christmas Day: Closed.
Admission: Free, no tickets required.
Lights: Switch on not announced.
Santa: No.
Ice skating: No.
Vegetarian: Yes, plenty of options.
Vegan: Yes, plenty of options.
Gluten free: Yes, but limited.
Accessible: Yes.
Pet-friendly: Yes, but not recommended during busy periods.
Christmas Shuttle: Available from Colmar to Ribeauvillé, Riquewihr, Turckheim and Kaysersberg.
Parking: Please take public transport to help limit congestion.
Reason to visit: Medieval castle ruins backdrop, wine route location, authentic Alsatian traditions.
Specialities: Kougelhopf, flammekueche, Alsatian mulled wine, bredele biscuits.
Where to stay: Hotel KLE is 2 minutes from the event.
Convenient Hotels
To stay near Cour de l’Arsenal, I recommend Hotel KLE, which is popular for its convenient location and warm reception.
Add a day trip to one of these Christmas markets in Alsace.
Read our complete guide to the French Christmas Markets.
Event Location
What to Expect
Kaysersberg’s medieval architecture is illuminated during winter, with the market set among historic half-timbered buildings, creating an intimate atmosphere.
Around thirty wooden chalets nestle at the foot of the 13th-century castle ruins, where visitors can climb 122 steps to enjoy panoramic views over the town’s roofs, Weiss Valley, vineyards, and Germany’s Black Forest. The market distinguishes itself through its castle setting and position on the Alsace Wine Route.
A Christmas farmers’ market at Place de la Mairie showcases local produce from regional farmers.
Regional Specialties
- Bredele – Small Christmas cookies in flavours like anise, orange, and cinnamon, traditionally baked at home and sold in decorative tins.
- Kougelhopf – Alsatian yeast cake baked in a circular bundt mould with raisins, almonds, and Kirschwasser cherry brandy. Savoury versions with cheese or ham are also available.
- Berawecka – Dense fruit bread packed with dried fruits and nuts, served sliced thin and improves with age.
- Mannala – Small brioche-like figures popular during St. Nicholas Day and Christmas, sometimes filled with chocolate or raisins and shaped like little men.
- Vin Chaud – Hot mulled wine simmered with cinnamon and cloves, sweetened with sugar or honey.
- Alsatian Pretzels – Available plain, salted, or filled with cream cheese.
Gifts and Souvenirs
- Wooden Toys – Traditional crafts carved by local artisans with intricate detailing, built to last generations.
- Ceramic Vases – Alsatian pottery using traditional techniques, often featuring regional designs.
- Advent Wreaths – Made with local foliage and decorations for counting the weeks to Christmas.
- Decorations – Handmade baubles to intricately designed stars with unique Alsatian touches.
- Alsatian Wine – Local bottles including Pinot Blanc and Gewürztraminer from the region’s famed vineyards.
- Linens – Embroidered tablecloths and napkins with holiday themes and regional designs.
- Artisanal Cheese – Locally produced cheeses with samples available, perfect paired with Alsatian wines.
- Local Artwork – Paintings and sketches by local artists capturing the essence of Alsace.
Sustainable Travel Tips
- Select eco-friendly hotels that utilise renewable energy sources, such as geothermal heating.
- Order mindfully at food stalls to reduce waste – the compact market makes it easy to try multiple items without excess.
- Focus on purchasing locally made crafts and products that support regional artisans.
- Opt for plant-based or vegetarian options like Flammekueche with cheese and onions.
- Use the Christmas Shuttle service from Colmar and explore Kaysersberg’s compact town centre on foot.
- Combine your visit with wine route exploration to make the most of sustainable transport options.
If you want to leave a Xmas review, comment below.
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Recommendations are independently chosen based on personal travel experiences and extensive research. While we make every effort to provide accurate information, the dates and details listed here should not be relied upon as definitive. Please consult the official website before booking your trip or planning a visit.
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