Biedermeier-Christmarkt Werben (Elbe)

Werben (Elbe) — A Hidden Gem of the Altmark

Werben (Elbe) is the smallest Hanseatic town in Germany — the place on the right bank of the Elbe in the Stendal district has just 1,300 inhabitants. The medieval old town with its brick churches, remnants of the town wall, and narrow alleys looks like an open-air museum. In the state of Saxony-Anhalt, Werben is one of the most beautiful and least crowded small towns — a hidden tip for tourism in the Altmark.

Biedermeier Concept Since 2004

The Biedermeier-Christmarkt has existed since 2004 and follows a consistent concept: No electrical power, no plastics. The stalls are illuminated with oil lamps, wax torches, and lanterns. The stallholders wear Biedermeier costumes (1815–1848), and the goods offered are based on crafts and food items available during the Biedermeier era. A clear, sustained concept that has made the market famous throughout Germany.

What You'll Find

Hand-forged ironware, pottery jugs, knitted linen fabrics, gingerbread, and mead according to historical recipes, baked apples over an open fire, mulled wine from copper kettles. No plastic cutlery, but wooden spoons, metal forks, ceramic mugs. The experience is unusually decelerating — a Christmas market that promotes atmosphere rather than consumption.

3rd Advent Weekend

The market traditionally takes place on the 3rd Advent weekend — in 2026, expectedly December 12th and 13th. On Saturday from the late afternoon and on Sunday afternoon. The evening illumination with oil lamps is the main attraction — anyone visiting the market should come in the evening. In the state of Saxony-Anhalt, Stendal district, the Biedermeier-Christmarkt is one of the destinations for which the longer journey is absolutely worthwhile.