Adventsmarkt auf der Burg Löcknitz

Advent in a Medieval Castle

The Advent Market at Löcknitz Castle is one of the most atmospheric pre-Christmas events in Vorpommern-Greifswald. The former border fortress at the Randow crossing – a prominent landmark in the region for over 800 years – opens its walls for a day where artisans, associations, and neighbors come together. The Heimat- und Burgverein Löcknitz e.V. (Local History and Castle Association) organizes the festival on a voluntary basis.

Concert Opening in the Castle Hall

The market traditionally opens with a concert in the castle hall – in past years, for example, a mandolin concert or classical Advent pieces by regional ensembles. The acoustic prelude within the thick walls of the keep sets the mood for the Advent season before the market doors open.

Arts and Crafts and Delicacies

Lovingly decorated stalls offer handmade arts and crafts from the region: ceramics, blacksmith work, knitted woolens, wood decorations, candles, and Advent arrangements. Fresh Christmas baked goods, stollen, and hearty wood-fired bread come from the stone oven. In the gallery and castle cellar, visitors warm up with hot cocoa, mulled wine, and tea.

Community Spirit and Neighborhood

The market is organized by the castle association together with clubs and families from Löcknitz and the surrounding area. The proceeds go towards the further preservation of the castle grounds. Visitors to the market experience a very East German form of voluntary community spirit that sustains the region throughout the year.

Getting to Löcknitz

Löcknitz is located directly on the German-Polish border, about 60 kilometers south of Szczecin and 30 kilometers southeast of Pasewalk. The castle is centrally located in the town and is within walking distance of Löcknitz train station (Berlin–Szczecin line).