Recklinghausen Christmas Market

Three Markets, One Advent Magic

The Recklinghausen Christmas Market is spread across three locations in the old town — and that's its hallmark. From 19 November to 23 December 2026, Altstadtmarkt, Kirchplatz St. Peter, and the Platz am Palais Vest form a joint Christmas market network, connected by short walks between the three squares. Each square has its own character — and together they make the old town one of the most beautiful Christmas markets in the northern Ruhr area.

Altstadtmarkt — the Canopy of Lights

The Altstadtmarkt is the classic centre with the famous canopy of lights — a network of fairy lights that spans the entire square, creating a magical sparkle. Here you'll find most of the craft stalls — wood carvings, ceramics, glass, jewellery, textiles. Mulled wine stands, bratwurst stalls, and small snack vendors complete the circuit around the square.

Kirchplatz St. Peter — the Umbrella Bar

Kirchplatz St. Peter has its own highlight: the unique umbrella bar — a bar under a giant, artfully decorated umbrella roof. This is the place to meet for mulled wine and punch, listen to nostalgic Advent music, and enjoy the atmosphere near the venerable St. Peter's parish church. The square opens daily from 5:00 PM — in the evening, when the lights unfold their full effect.

Palais Vest Platz — Advent Programme

The third location, the square at Palais Vest (the Recklinghausen shopping centre), offers a colourful Advent programme — stage performances by local choirs, school orchestras, a carousel for children, cosy seating areas. Those travelling with children will find the most family-friendly offer here.

Opening Hours and Schedule

The market opens daily:

• Sunday to Thursday — 12:00 PM to 9:00 PM
• Friday and Saturday — 12:00 PM to 10:00 PM
• Kirchplatz St. Peter — from 5:00 PM (also on Sundays)
• Closed — 23 November (Totensonntag) and 24 December

The official opening takes place on Wednesday, 19 November 2026, at 6:00 PM at Altstadtmarkt.

Recklinghausen — Capital of the Vest

Recklinghausen is the district town of the district of Recklinghausen and is historically considered the "Capital of the Vest Recklinghausen" — a region north of the Emscher river. With around 113,000 inhabitants, the city is one of the larger hubs in the northern Ruhr area. Famous are the Ruhrfestspiele Recklinghausen (annually in May/June), the Vestlandhalle, and the historic old town centre, whose St. Peter's Church dates back to the 13th century.