Haldensleber Sternenmarkt with Ice Rink

Stars over the Börde

Haldensleben is the district town of the Börde district and is located about 25 km northwest of Magdeburg. The town with its approximately 18,000 inhabitants does something special in the pre-Christmas period: Over 300 stars adorn the city center — this gives the city its popular nickname, City of Stars. From December 5th to 20th, 2026, the Haldensleber Sternenmarkt with its ice rink, market stalls, and a very special giant advent calendar unfolds on the market square.

The Giant Advent Calendar

The actual trademark is a large, lovingly designed advent calendar on the windows of the market houses. Every day at 5:00 PM, Santa Claus climbs a historic fire ladder and opens the day's door — the children gather in the market square and wait eagerly. It is one of the most charming Advent traditions in Saxony-Anhalt — and unique in the entire state.

Ice Rink and Market Stalls

The ice rink is the second highlight: a compact but real ice rink that is open to children, school classes, and adults alike. Ice skates can be rented. In addition, there are over 30 market stalls with mulled wine, baked goods, crafts, Christmas decorations, and regional food. In the state of Saxony-Anhalt, Börde district, the Sternenmarkt is considered a family-friendly alternative to the larger markets in Magdeburg and Bernburg.

Haldensleben in the Börde District

Haldensleben has a long industrial tradition and is considered the logistics hub of Central Germany (numerous distribution centers of major retail brands). In addition, the city is the administrative center of the Börde district — the most agriculturally characterized region in Germany. Those who visit the Sternenmarkt should take their time to explore the historic old town, the Roland monument, and the city museum.