Coburg Christmas Market

The Market Square Becomes a Christmas City

Coburg's Market Square is one of the most beautiful historic squares in Franconia. Framed by the historic Town Hall (with the 'Stadtmännchen' on the gable), the City Hall, the Old Chancellery, and an ensemble of Renaissance and Baroque facades, it offers the perfect backdrop for a Christmas market. Four illuminated gates, decorated with fir branches, invite visitors into the 'Christmas City'.

The Star Tent — The Trademark of the Coburg Christmas Market

In the middle of the Market Square stands the monument of Prince Albert of Saxe-Coburg and Gotha (1819–1861), the famous consort of British Queen Victoria. Born in Coburg, he made Coburg-Gotha a relative of European royalty. Every year, the Coburg Christmas Market stretches its Star Tent over this monument — an illuminated tent structure, under which there are standing tables and the central mulled wine stand. This is where people meet, toast, and chat with Coburg locals.

What's Available

• Local Handicrafts: Wood carvings (also from the nearby Thuringian Forest), Christmas tree decorations, gingerbread, candles
• Exhibition Booths: Regional artisans demonstrate their techniques
• Franconian Delicacies: Coburg Bratwurst (one of Franconia's most famous sausage types, long and thin), Schäufele (pork shoulder), roasted almonds, gingerbread
• Mulled Wine: made from Franconian wines or as 'Coburger Spezial' with honey or cream
• Warmth Fires: around the Prince Albert Monument — cozy, convivial
• Historic Carousel: a nostalgic carousel for children, classic and popular
• Evening Program: daily music and choirs on the market stage
• St. Nicholas and Santa Claus: Sunday visits with sweets for children

Coburg Bratwurst — The Most Important Coburg Specialty

Anyone in Coburg must eat a Coburg Bratwurst. It is long (about 25-30 cm), thin, and served in a 'Coburg roll' (longish, slightly sweet) — a perfect market sausage. The Coburg Bratwurst tradition dates back to the 17th century and is protected throughout Europe.

Coburg — World Heritage City and Royal City

Coburg (around 41,000 inhabitants) in the extreme northeast of Bavaria, on the border with Thuringia, is one of Germany's most historically interesting small cities. Until 1918, it was the ducal residence of Saxe-Coburg and Gotha, with family ties to almost all European royal houses (Queen Victoria, Belgian Royal Family, Portuguese Royal Family). Today, it is characterized by the mighty Ehrenburg Palace, the Veste Coburg (Luther Castle, one of Germany's largest fortresses), and an impressive old town. Those who come for the Christmas market should spend a day in Coburg.

When to Go?

Opening day (Friday, November 28, 2026, from 5 PM) for the festive atmosphere. Quiet on weekday mornings, good for families. Weekends are lively, with live music and bustling crowds. The mulled wine at the Star Tent is a must, no matter when you go.