Family Christmas Market Unna

Family Christmas Market Unna — Six Weeks of Advent City

The Family Christmas Market Unna is one of the oldest and most traditional Advent events in the Unna district. With a run of 40 days from November 13 to December 22, 2026, it is one of the longer Christmas markets in North Rhine-Westphalia. The market spreads across three central squares in Unna's city center — the Rathausplatz, the Bahnhofstraße, and the Marktplatz — thus forming a connected Advent city in the heart of the town.

Punch and Judy Show Since 1976 — A Classic Across Generations

A special tradition makes the Unna Christmas Market unmistakable: the Punch and Judy show, which has been performed daily every year during the market since 1976. Showtimes: daily 3:00 PM to 5:15 PM. Generations of Unna children have grown up with this Punch and Judy show — today, parents and grandparents return to show it to their own children and grandchildren. It is a piece of living city culture that shapes the market in a very special way.

Elf Village, Mistletoe Arch, and Stage Program

The family-oriented profile is evident in other program points:

• Elf Village — a dedicated children's area with discovery elements and play activities
• Mistletoe Arch — a romantic photo spot for couples and families
• Stage Program with Christmas songs, choir performances, and live music
• Club Huts — kindergartens, schools, and regional artists present homemade goods
• Culinary Stalls: mulled wine, candied almonds, potato pancakes, bratwurst
• Craft Stalls: jewelry, toys, gift ideas

Three Locations — One Advent City

The spread across three squares makes the walk from one to another a central element of the market experience:

• Rathausplatz — Main stage and large market area in front of the historic town hall
• Bahnhofstraße — Connecting axis with additional stalls and lighting
• Marktplatz — Historic city center with more stalls and a cozy atmosphere

Unna — District Capital on the Eastern Ruhr Area

Unna is a city of around 60,000 inhabitants and the district capital of the Unna district in North Rhine-Westphalia, located on the eastern edge of the Ruhr area — transitioning to the Sauerland and Hellweg regions. The historic old town with its town hall, city church, and market square preserves medieval charm. The Christmas market utilizes this substance and spreads throughout the entire city center — a conceptual strength that distinguishes the market from monotonous, centralized markets.