Cottbus Winter Forest

A City Promenade Becomes a Winter Landscape

There are many Christmas markets in Germany — but the Cottbus Winter Forest is different. Instead of stalls, bratwurst, and nativity scenes, a walkable winter scene is created here: 400 four-meter-high conifers are placed on the city promenade between the former city gate and Spreepark, forming a dense, artificially planted winter forest. Walking through it truly feels like being in a fairytale landscape. The organizer is the City of Cottbus in cooperation with local providers.

Long Season from Late November to Early February

Unlike most Christmas markets, the Cottbus Winter Forest does not close on December 23rd but remains open until the beginning of February — as the "only continuous winter forest in Lusatia." This allows it to extend beyond Christmas and New Year's Eve, offering a winter experience far beyond the classic Advent season. It is open daily from 4:00 PM to 11:00 PM (closing times vary depending on the day of the week).

Program and Atmosphere

In the Winter Forest, there are huts offering mulled wine, Feuerzangenbowle (mulled wine with rum), hot chocolate, and winter street food. Fire pits and heated seating areas make longer stays comfortable. Live music and fire shows primarily take place on Friday and Saturday evenings. A special attraction is the Elf Workshop for children, where they can craft and play. Free admission, payment only for consumption.

Accessible and Central

The city promenade is accessible and can be reached in a few minutes' walk from Cottbus Central Station. Trams and buses stop nearby. The terrain is flat — ideal for wheelchairs, strollers, and families with small children.

Cottbus in Winter

With around 100,000 inhabitants, Cottbus is the second-largest city in Brandenburg. In winter, the capital of Lower Lusatia reveals an unusual side: Prince Pückler's Branitz Castle lies in its white park, the Cottbus Ostsee (East Lake) rests quietly — and the city promenade glows with thousands of lights.