Europamarkt Aachen — Arts and Crafts and Design

50 Years of Europamarkt — An Anniversary

The Europamarkt Aachen is one of Germany's oldest and most renowned arts and crafts markets. Founded in 1976 as a curated format from Aachen's craft sector, it celebrates its 50th anniversary in 2026 — "50 Years Tradition and Quality," as the organizer puts it. The date is the first weekend of September, September 5th and 6th.

300 Exhibitors from All Over Europe

Around 300 carefully selected artisans and designer-producers travel to Aachen from all over Europe. The exhibitor list is curated — this makes the Europamarkt more than just a craft market: it's about contemporary design and high-quality craftsmanship, not souvenirs. Categories include wood, ceramics, stone, textiles, metal, and overarching design.

Seven Squares Around the Cathedral and City Hall

The market is spread across seven squares in Aachen's city center — all in close proximity to the Cathedral and City Hall. The concept is clever: visitors are virtually compelled to wander through the historic old town with its sightlines and experience the exhibitors in one of Western Europe's most atmospheric inner-city settings. The Aachen Cathedral, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and the Gothic City Hall form the anchors.

Chamber of Crafts as Organizer

The organizer is the Consultancy for Design of the Aachen Chamber of Crafts — an institution dedicated to promoting design quality in crafts. The selection of exhibitors follows specific criteria: high-quality material work, independent design, ideally their own workshop. At the market itself, visitors can speak directly with the makers and request custom orders.

Design Forum and Academy

The market in 2026 will be complemented by the "Design Forum" — a showcase of student work from the Academy for Crafts Design. Thus, the Europamarkt not only showcases current arts and crafts but also its emerging talent. Many exhibitors now maintain their own online shops, allowing buyers to purchase items between market dates.

Aachen as a Location

Aachen, Germany's westernmost major city on the border with Belgium and the Netherlands, is a natural stage for a European event. Three countries border directly, the university landscape (RWTH Aachen) and the historical heritage of Charlemagne shape the city. The Europamarkt is a highlight in Aachen's cultural calendar.