Adventsmarkt im Kloster Plankstetten

Advent at the Benedictine Monastery

The Adventsmarkt im Kloster Plankstetten stands out from ordinary Christmas markets: it takes place in the historic monastery courtyard of the Benedictine Abbey Plankstetten, a monastery over 900 years old near Berching in the Altmühltal Nature Park. The combination of market activities and the monastic daily rhythm – with midday prayer and vespers in the abbey church – lends the market a contemplative, distinctive atmosphere. It is considered one of the most beautiful Advent markets in the region.

Two Advent Weekends

The market is held on two Advent weekends, each Saturday and Sunday. This allows visitors to experience the market on both the first and second Advent weekends, avoiding crowds on a single date. It is open daily from 11:00 AM to 7:00 PM.

Arts and Crafts and Monastic Products

The offerings are high-quality and handmade: artistic nativity scenes, handmade candles, colorful ceramics, wood carvings, and other arts and crafts. Culinary delights include organic mulled wine – the monastery is known for its organic farming – gingerbread, and seasonal treats.

Daily Program in the Rhythm of the Monastery

The market visit follows the monastic daily schedule: 11:00 AM Market opening, 12:00 PM Midday prayer in the abbey church, 2:30 PM Church and crypt tour, 4:00 PM Visit from St. Nicholas, 6:00 PM Vespers in the abbey church, 7:00 PM Market end.

Living Nativity Scene and Children's Program

For families, there is a living nativity scene with animals and a special craft and activity program for children. The visit from St. Nicholas at 4:00 PM is a highlight for the youngest guests every market day.

Benedictine Abbey Plankstetten

The Benedictine Abbey Plankstetten near Berching in the Neumarkt in der Oberpfalz district is a living monastery known for its organic farming, guesthouse, and educational work. The Advent market opens the monastery walls once a year for a contemplative market in the spirit of the monastic year.