Burgweihnacht – Christmas Story at the Imperial Castle

When the first snowflakes swirl over the Moselle on a second Advent weekend, or a clear winter evening makes the stars shine above the Imperial Castle, the Burgweihnacht unfolds its special magic. Unlike classic Christmas markets that focus on mulled wine, stalls, and stage programs, the Burgweihnacht places the ancient narrative of the Holy Night at its center – as a living reenactment with real people and real animals.

The performance follows the biblical narrative. Several stations are set up in the Rose Garden where actors in medieval-looking costumes portray the scenes: Mary and Joseph searching for lodging, the birth in the stable with a crib, donkey, ox, and sheep, the shepherds in the fields, the angels announcing the good news, the Three Wise Men paying homage. Visitors walk through the stations in small groups, experiencing the play not as a stage performance but as an immersive living space.

The reenactment is in German. Entrance fees are charged for the Burgweihnacht, as the castle setting, actors' fees, and animal provision involve considerable effort. In the outer area – at the forecourt and castle entrance – a free Christmas market in the classic format takes place concurrently, with wooden stalls, mulled wine, handicrafts, and culinary specialties. The Burgweihnacht is open from 12 PM to 6 PM on both days; the reenactments are repeated several times, ensuring all groups can experience the full story.