Christmas Market Maximilianpark Hamm

Christmas Market in Maximilianpark — Park Atmosphere in Advent

The Christmas Market in Maximilianpark Hamm is one of Westphalia's intimate, atmospheric market formats. Unlike the large city center markets, this market takes place in the park setting of Maxipark — a former colliery park, now a Hamm landmark with the iconic Glass Elephant (a walkable sculpture observation tower). From November 27th to 29th, 2026, the Maximilianhalle and outdoor areas will transform into an Advent experience landscape.

Maximilianpark — From Coal Mining Site to Leisure Park

Maximilianpark was created on the site of the former Maximilian colliery and is now a 22-hectare leisure park in the south of Hamm. With the Glass Elephant (built in 1984), the butterfly house, and spacious lawns, it's a year-round destination for families. The Christmas Market uses this extraordinary backdrop to offer a market format beyond the city center standard — smaller, quieter, closer to nature.

2026 Program — Three Days of Advent Magic

The event format is compact and curated: Friday to Sunday, 10:00 AM–6:00 PM daily. Locations are the Maximilianhalle (indoor area) and the huts in the outdoor area.

Culinary Delights

• Mulled wine (red and white), Glühgrog (hot advocaat punch)
• Gingerbread, spiced biscuits, candied almonds
• Bratwurst, potato pancakes, vegan options

Arts and Crafts and Stalls

• Creative arts and crafts (pottery, woodwork, jewelry)
• Festive decorations and ornaments
• Culinary specialties from the Westphalia region

Stage and Children's Program

• Friday, Nov 27th, 3:00 PM: Performance by kindergarten children
• Sunday, Nov 29th, 2:00 PM–4:00 PM: Brass ensemble
• Weekend: Christmas angel and Santa Claus distribute sweets
• Advent Café in the Glass Elephant: homemade cakes with a view over Hamm
• Nativity scene exhibition and children's craft activities

The Glass Elephant — Advent Café with a View

A highlight for many visitors is the Advent Café in the Glass Elephant — the walkable 35-meter-high observation tower with a glass facade offers café service with homemade cakes on the upper platform. From there, you can enjoy a panoramic view of the park and the city of Hamm — an Advent experience that no other market in the Ruhr area offers.

Admission and Costs

Maximilianpark charges a park admission fee, which includes the Christmas market: €2.50 adults, €1.50 children, €6.00 family ticket. Annual pass holders are free. RUHR.TOPCARD holders pay an additional €1.00 per adult.

Getting There — Right in Front of the Park

Address: Alter Grenzweg 2, 59071 Hamm, in the south of Hamm. By car via the A2/A1, ample parking directly at the park. By public transport: Bus line 5 from Hamm Hbf to stop "Maximilianpark".