Forster Christmas Market 2026

Christmas in the Rose Town

Forst (Lausitz) is known as the Rose Town in summer — but in winter, the square in front of the St. Nicholas Town Church transforms into one of the most beautiful Christmas markets in Niederlausitz. On the third Advent weekend — in 2026, this falls on December 12th and 13th — the decorated stalls open, fairy lights twinkle between the historic walls, and the scent of mulled wine, roasted almonds, and freshly baked waffles wafts through the town center of Forst. The brick Gothic town church provides an impressive backdrop, giving the market its very own character.

Stage Program with Regional Artists

The heart of the Forster Christmas Market is the daily stage program: Regional artists, children's groups, and associations provide the atmosphere with singing, instrumental music, recitations, and dance performances. Schools and choirs from Niederlausitz participate in the program — a wonderful stage for young talents and a meeting place for generations. Live on stage every day — from quiet Advent songs in the afternoon to cheerful mood music in the evening.

Santa Claus, Stick Bread, and New Stick Sports Course

Santa Claus visits the market daily and gives children small surprises — a classic element of the Forster Christmas Market. Every day at 5 p.m., delicious stick bread is baked over an open fire — participation is explicitly encouraged. New to the program lineup: a 10-meter-long wooden stick sports course, where groups of 3 to 6 people can test their skills (one hour use €15).

Culinary Delights and Gifts

Culinary, visitors can expect the full range of a German Christmas market: hot mulled wine, punch, roasted almonds, bratwurst, stollen, layered cake, crêpes, waffles, and grilled specialties. In addition, there are more unusual specialties like Stroganoff, pierogi, French hot dogs, as well as special drinks like mulled beer and mead. At the craft stalls, visitors will find lovely gift ideas — from handicrafts and candles to regional products from Niederlausitz.

Niederlausitz and Spree-Neiße

Forst (Lausitz) is located in the Spree-Neiße district, directly on the German-Polish border. The twin city with Zasieki on the Polish side is the second-largest town in the district and an important cultural center in eastern Niederlausitz. In summer, the East German Rose Garden dominates the scene; in winter, it's the Advent markets — in addition to the Christmas market at St. Nicholas Town Church, there is also the Forster Christmas Forest with illuminated sculptures within the Forst municipal area. Those planning an Advent trip to southern Brandenburg will find an authentic, less crowded experience here compared to the large Christmas markets in Berlin.