The 45-metre tree in the centre of the market isn’t a single tree at all; it’s roughly 1,700 individual spruce trees assembled around a steel frame and topped with an angel. The Dortmund Christmas Market has built its reputation around this engineering feat, and the sheer scale of the structure is something you have to see in person to appreciate.
Dortmund Christmas Market 2026
Dates and Location
Status: Confirmed
Dortmund dates: 19th November to 30th December 2026
Last checked: July 2026
Source: Weihnachtsstadt
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Location: Hansaplatz.
Opening times:
Monday to Thursday: 11am to 9pm.
Friday and Saturday: 11am to 10pm.
Sunday: 12pm to 9pm.
Snack stalls close 1 hour later.
Sunday of the Dead: Closed.
Christmas Eve: 11am to 2pm (limited stalls).
Christmas Day: Closed.
Boxing Day: 12pm to 9pm.
27th & 28th December: 11am to 9pm.
29th December: 12pm to 9pm.
30th December: 11am to 9pm.
Admission: Free.
Lights: No switch-on date announced.
Santa: No.
Ice skating: Yes.
Vegetarian: Yes, plenty of options.
Vegan: Yes, but limited.
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: The largest decorated tree in the world, made from 1000 Norway spruce trees from Germany’s Sauerland forests. It is covered in 48,000 fairy lights and is topped with an angel.
Recommended tour: Don’t miss this incredibly unique exhibition.
Food specialities: Glühwein (mulled wine), glühbier (mulled beer), reibekuchen (potato fritters), Dortmunder Salzkuchen (Saltcake).
Where to stay: Coffee Fellows Hotel is just 1-minute from the event.
Convenient Hotels
Consider staying in the City West district, which is a short walk from the market and has plenty of accommodation options, shops, restaurants, and other tourist attractions. The Coffee Fellows Hotel is a good option here, and it’s right across the road from Hansaplatz.
Read my guide to hotels in Dortmund if you’re looking for an alternative place to stay.
Interesting Tours
I recommend starting with a visit to see the Phoenix des Lumières exhibition in the city centre. Then take a regular city tour, where you’ll likely visit the Reinoldikirche, Florianturm and Westfalenpark.
Read our complete guide to the German Christmas Markets.
Event Location
What to Expect
The winter market has something for everyone, from the impressive 45-meter-high Christmas tree in Hansaplatz to the medieval-themed market. Try the local specialities, such as reibekuchen (potato pancakes) and glühwein (mulled wine), and check out the crafts and gifts. Kids will love the carousel, while adults can enjoy live music and evening entertainment.
Food Specialties
- Bratwurst: A typical German grilled sausage served in a bun.
- Lebkuchen: A type of gingerbread cookie that is flavoured with honey, cinnamon and other spices.
- Stollen: A type of fruit bread filled with raisins, candied fruit and nuts and dusted with powdered sugar.
- Marzipan: A sweet confection made from ground almonds and sugar. It’s often shaped into small fruits, animals, or other figures and given as a gift.
- Kartoffelpuffer: Also known locally as reibekuchen, these potato pancakes are fried until crispy and served with apple sauce or sour cream. These are not always vegetarian; ask before you buy.
- Spätzle: A soft egg noodle often served with gravy, mushrooms, or cheese. Vegetarian options with spinach or cheese are also available.
- Rotkohl: A sweet and sour red cabbage dish served with meat or potatoes.
Sustainability Tips
- Choose eco-friendly accommodations: Look for hotels or apartments that utilise renewable energy sources, such as solar or wind power, or have implemented energy-saving measures.
- Use public transport: Dortmund has an excellent public transport system, including buses, trams and trains. Instead of driving or taking a taxi, consider using public transportation to reduce your carbon footprint.
- Bring your own reusable shopping bag. This will help reduce the number of plastic bags that end up in landfills.
- Limit food waste: Buy or cook only what you need and donate any excess food to local charities or food banks.
- Choose sustainable gifts: Instead of buying mass-produced, disposable gifts, consider supporting local artisans and businesses that create handmade, sustainable items. Alternatively, consider giving the gift of an experience, such as concert tickets or a cooking class.
- Opt for vegetarian or vegan meals: Reducing your consumption of meat and dairy products can have a significant impact on the environment. Look for restaurants and food stalls offering vegetarian or vegan options.
Comment below if you want to leave a Xmas review, have any questions or would like to report any inaccuracies.
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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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