Adventsbasar Schloss Burg

Schloss Burg an der Wupper — the landmark of the Bergisches Land

Schloss Burg an der Wupper, in the Solingen district of Burg, is the largest reconstructed castle complex in North Rhine-Westphalia. Originally founded around 1130 by the Counts of Berg as their ancestral seat, the castle was the political center of the Bergisches Land for centuries. After destruction in the 17th century and subsequent decay, it was rebuilt in several phases starting in 1890 and is now a museum, event location, and tourist attraction. The Schlossbauverein Burg an der Wupper e.V. maintains the complex and organizes the events.

Advent Market — Kick-off to the Castle Christmas Season

The Advent market on the 1st Advent weekend opens the castle Christmas season at Schloss Burg. The stalls are set up in the inner courtyard — protected by the high castle walls — and in the restored historic rooms (Knights' Hall, Ancestors' Hall, cellar vaults). The atmosphere is highly evocative: a large decorated Christmas tree in front of the castle, string lights, and torchlight, medieval ambiance within the walls.

Arts and Crafts and Gastronomy

The stalls offer a carefully curated selection of arts and crafts: handmade jewelry, ceramics, glasswork, textiles, wooden figures, handmade candles, cosmetics from regional production. Deliberately few stalls — the concept focuses on quality over quantity, and assortments not found at a typical large city center Christmas market. Catering outside the castle offers mulled wine, punch, crêpes, bratwurst, and potato pancakes — inside the rooms, supplemented by specialties like hot mead and castle soups.

Museum Open Simultaneously

An added bonus: the castle museum is open during the Advent market — visitors can combine their market visit with a tour of the castle's historic substance. Topics range from the history of the Counts of Berg and medieval weaponry to the reconstruction history of the early 20th century. Museum admission is regulated separately.

Atmosphere and Family Program

The mix of festive lighting within the heavy castle walls, the crackling of torch and warming fires, and the Advent ambiance makes the Advent market one of the most beautiful Advent markets in the Bergisches Land. Families will find a small children's program during the day, occasionally also music by brass ensembles or choirs. Those who shy away from the hustle and bustle of large city center markets will find a very special alternative here.

Getting to Schloss Burg

By car via the L 74 — parking at the castle is limited, a park-and-ride system is often set up (parking in the valley, shuttle up to the castle). By cable car (Müngstener Brücke → Schloss Burg-Seilbahn), an atmospheric way to arrive. By public transport: bus lines from Solingen-Mitte and Wuppertal. Approximately 25 minutes by bus from Solingen-Mitte; about 30 minutes from Wuppertal-Vohwinkel plus cable car.