Christmas by the Sea
Edition 2026 Folklore Family Art crafts

Christmas by the Sea

Wilhelmshaven Christmas Market with a 15-meter pyramid at Valoisplatz

Wilhelmshaven — Kreisfreie Stadt Wilhelmshaven (03405)
Dates 23 Nov — 28 Dec 2026
Venue Wilhelmshaven (03405)
Prices Free
Status

About Christmas by the Sea

Christmas by the Sea is the large Wilhelmshaven Christmas market at Valoisplatz and in the city center. For several weeks – from November 23 to December 28, 2026 – the central square transforms into an atmospheric Christmas world with 25 stalls and an impressive 15-meter-high Christmas pyramid as its landmark. The NordseePassage is festively illuminated, Santa Claus pays visits, and a children's program ensures sparkling eyes. The official opening with the mayor kicks off the pre-Christmas season. Mulled wine, roasted almonds, bratwurst, potato pancakes, and North German specialties make the market an Advent experience with a maritime flair.

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Wilhelmshaven's Grand Christmas Market

Christmas by the Sea is Wilhelmshaven's largest Christmas market and a central meeting point for the entire region for several weeks. Valoisplatz in the heart of the city center forms the main area, complemented by atmospherically illuminated sections in the NordseePassage and along the pedestrian zone. With 25 stalls, the market offers a compact yet diverse selection: Christmas specialties, regional handicrafts, gift ideas, and of course, classic Advent gastronomy.

The 15-Meter Pyramid as a Landmark

The optical landmark of the market is the 15-meter-high Christmas pyramid. With its large rotating figures, it is one of the most impressive pyramid examples on the German North Sea coast and a popular photo motif. The stalls are arranged around the pyramid, with standing tables in between, a small ice rink (depending on the year), and atmospheric light installations. The NordseePassage is additionally festively illuminated during Advent and is part of the festival area.

Santa Claus, Opening, and Children's Program

The official opening is performed by the Mayor of Wilhelmshaven – a festive start that heralds the Advent season for the city. Over the weeks, Santa Claus visits the market and distributes small gifts to the children. A children's program with craft activities, carousels, and small stage performances ensures sparkling eyes for the youngest guests. Mulled wine, eggnog, roasted almonds, bratwurst, potato pancakes, candied apples, and North German specialties like hot grog complete the gastronomic offer.

Christmas by the Sea — edition 2026

From November 23 to December 28, 2026, Wilhelmshaven's grand Christmas market, Christmas by the Sea, opens at Valoisplatz. 25 stalls, the 15-meter-high Christmas pyramid, a festively illuminated NordseePassage, and a children's program characterize the scene. Visits from Santa Claus, official opening with the mayor, mulled wine, bratwurst, and North German specialties. Free admission.

2026 Edition

The 2026 edition spans five weeks from the first Advent until shortly after Christmas. Wilhelmshaven Touristik organizes the market in its proven format.

Maritime Flair

Wilhelmshaven's maritime flair also characterizes the Christmas market. Hot grog, shanty singing on certain evenings, and maritime gift ideas give the market its own unique character.

Programme Christmas by the Sea 2026

2026 Program

The exact program for 2026 – stage acts, Santa Claus visits, opening date – will be published by Wilhelmshaven Touristik in good time. The structure follows the proven key points of previous years:

  • Nov 23, 2026 — Official opening with the Mayor of Wilhelmshaven
  • Daily — Opening of the 25 stalls, festive illumination of the NordseePassage
  • 15-meter Christmas pyramid as a landmark
  • Santa Claus visits on selected days
  • Children's program: craft activities, carousels, stage performances
  • Food & Drink: Mulled wine, eggnog, grog, bratwurst, potato pancakes, roasted almonds
  • Dec 28, 2026 — Last market day

Free admission.

Highlights Christmas by the Sea 2026

  • 25 stalls at Valoisplatz
  • 15-meter Christmas pyramid as a landmark
  • Festively illuminated NordseePassage
  • Santa Claus visits and children's program

Prices Christmas by the Sea 2026

Free admission. Food, drinks, and goods at usual market prices.

Practical information — Christmas by the Sea

Getting There

Valoisplatz is centrally located in Wilhelmshaven's city center, within walking distance of the main train station. Travel by train or bus is recommended. Parking is available on the outskirts of the city center and in surrounding parking garages.

On Site

The market takes place predominantly outdoors. Warm clothing is recommended. Seating is available at standing tables, and a covered area at the NordseePassage offers shelter in case of bad weather.

Food & Drink

Mulled wine, eggnog, grog, bratwurst, potato pancakes, roasted almonds, crêpes, and North German specialties at usual market prices.

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Christmas by the Sea at a glance

Folklore Family Art crafts Outdoor Free Kreisfreie Stadt Wilhelmshaven