Andreasmarkt Linnich

Andreasmarkt Linnich — 450 Years of Market History

The Andreasmarkt Linnich is one of the oldest and most traditional markets in the Rhineland. Its roots date back to 1571, when Duke Wilhelm V of Jülich granted the 'old town of Linnich' the right to hold a market on St. Andrew's Day (November 30, the feast day of the Apostle Andrew). With over 450 years of tradition, it is one of the oldest continuously held markets in North Rhine-Westphalia.

Date: on the Monday after the 1st Sunday of Advent

The date follows an old rule: The Andreasmarkt always takes place on the Monday after the 1st Sunday of Advent. In 2026, this will be on Monday, November 30, 2026. The date does not coincidentally clash with November 30 — the original St. Andrew's Day, which gave the market its name.

Historic: One of the Last Major Farmers' Markets in the Region

In the 18th century, the Andreasmarkt was one of the most important farmers' markets on the lower Lower Rhine:

• Draft Horses — heavy workhorses, whose breeding was highly regarded in the region
• Cattle — slaughter and dairy cattle from the Jülich region
• Agricultural Products — grain, seeds, tools

A market master oversaw the quality of the livestock and settled disputes. Farmers and agricultural workers traveled with their families from all over the surrounding area — the market was one of the few opportunities to purchase certain goods. Today, the character is different: no longer a livestock market, but a mix of tradition and modern Advent atmosphere.

The Market Today — Advent Lights and Stalls

Today, the Andreasmarkt combines its historical heritage with the classic Advent market:

• Decorated stalls in the city center
• Advent lights and fairy lights
• Regional handicrafts
• Gastronomy: mulled wine, bratwurst, potato pancakes, gingerbread
• Club stands with fundraising campaigns
• Opening ceremony with city representatives

Linnich on the Rur

Linnich is a small town in the district of Düren (North Rhine-Westphalia) with around 12,500 inhabitants, located on the Rur river — at the transition from the Aachen region to the Rhineland. The town is known for its stained glass painting tradition (Linnich houses the German Stained Glass Museum) and its historic townscape with remnants of medieval city fortifications. The Andreasmarkt is one of the central identity elements of the city's marketing.