Christmas Market at Cologne Cathedral — Market of Hearts

In Front of the World Heritage Cathedral

The Christmas Market at Cologne Cathedral — self-dubbed the 'Market of Hearts' — is not just any Christkindl market: it's a festive spectacle in front of the UNESCO World Heritage site of Cologne Cathedral, one of Germany's most visited attractions. The venue is Roncalliplatz, directly in front of the cathedral's west portal. Over the Advent season, several million visitors from all over the world browse the stalls.

Dates 2026

The market runs from Monday, November 16 to Wednesday, December 23, 2026. Important opening hours:

• Sunday–Wednesday: 11:00 AM–9:00 PM
• Thursday–Friday: 11:00 AM–10:00 PM
• Saturday: 10:00 AM–10:00 PM
• Closed on November 22 (Totensonntag)

Over 140 Decorated Stalls

More than 140 stalls offer arts and crafts, gift items, culinary delights, and mulled wine variations. The spectrum ranges from traditional Rhenish specialties (Reibekuchen, Lebkuchen, Spekulatius, Stollen) and international cuisine to designer gifts and handmade items. Each stall is elaborately decorated; in the evening, the market's light installation bathes Roncalliplatz in a warm festive atmosphere.

Over 100 Free Stage Programs

A special feature of the market is its extensive stage program: over 100 free performances per season — choirs, bands, children's programs, sing-alongs, dance groups. A dedicated children's stage is part of the concept. The program will be published on koelnerweihnachtsmarkt.com in November.

Sustainability: ISO Certified Since 2024

A premiere: Since 2024, the market has been ISO certified for sustainability. This makes it likely the first German Christmas market with this comprehensive environmental and social certification. Reusable cups, energy-efficient lighting installations, and socially responsible procurement are part of the concept.

Cologne in Advent

Cologne, with over 1 million inhabitants, is the largest city in North Rhine-Westphalia and the fourth-largest city in Germany. During Advent, the city becomes one of Europe's most important Christmas market destinations: in addition to the market at the Cathedral, other major markets attract visitors in the Old Town (Heinzelmännchen), at Rudolfplatz (Nikolausdorf), Neumarkt (Engelmarkt), and in the Ehrenfeld district. Those planning a day trip can ideally combine several — a stamp card collects them all.