Adventsmarkt Bacharach – Schlender-Advent

The Schlender-Advent in Bacharach is one of the most charming Advent markets in the UNESCO World Heritage Upper Middle Rhine Valley. On the second Advent weekend, the historic market square of the famous wine town on the Rhine transforms into an atmospheric Christmas market with about thirty stalls.

The setting is extraordinary: Bacharach is one of the most beautiful medieval towns on the Rhine. Half-timbered houses from the 14th to 17th centuries line the market square, Stahleck Castle sits enthroned high above, and the Rhine glitters in the background. As darkness falls, fairy lights, candles, and stall lighting illuminate the scene, creating an almost picture-perfect Advent atmosphere.

At the stalls, regional producers, artisans, and associations present their range: mulled wine and punch, Bacharacher Riesling and sparkling wine, Christmas tree decorations, wood carvings, pottery, knitwear, honey products, gingerbread, "Schmalzgebäck" (traditional pastries), and winter specialties of Rhenish cuisine. Local vintners offer warm and cold Middle Rhine wines.

The program is complemented by musical performances by choirs, brass bands, and local associations. The parish church of St. Peter and the ruins of the Wernerkapelle are also integrated into the concept. The mix of medieval architecture, Christmas scents, and mulled wine warmth makes the Schlender-Advent a magnet for guests from the Rhine-Main area, the Ruhr area, and neighboring Hesse.

Unlike the large city Christmas markets, the Schlender-Advent preserves the family-friendly character of a small Advent market in a historic setting. Those who want to combine the flair of a medieval Rhine town with the atmosphere of the pre-Christmas season will find one of the most beautiful addresses on the Middle Rhine here.