Helmstedt Goose Market

A Helmstedt Tradition Since 2000

The Goose Market originated from an initiative by the city marketing department in 2000. The inspiration was the centuries-old North German tradition of eating Martin's goose around November 11th, which dates back to Saint Martin of Tours, among others. The market combines tradition with modern retail, making the Sunday in November a small family outing.

Arts and Crafts and Regional Producers

Regional producers present their products at the market stalls. Cheese from the Helmstedt region, honey, liqueurs, spirits, game sausage, jams, handmade ceramics, woodwork, and autumnal decorations form the range of offerings. Many exhibitors have been loyal to the market for years.

Sunday Shopping in the City Center

Parallel to the market activities, the shops in Helmstedt's city center are open. Fashion boutiques, bookstores, jewelers, and specialty shops use the occasion to usher in the pre-Christmas season.

Raffle of Ten Frozen Geese

The playful highlight of the day is the raffle of ten frozen geese among the market visitors. Tickets are distributed at the market stalls, and the drawing takes place on the market stage in the late afternoon – the prize is the timely festive roast for the Advent season.

Autumn Culinary Delights and Warmth

The appropriate seasonal culinary offerings await at the food stalls: Federweißer (new wine), onion cake, chestnuts, punch, bratwurst, kale, and of course, goose dishes. Many Helmstedt restaurants offer special menus for the goose season.

Atmospheric Setting

The historic market square with the town hall, St. Stephen's Church, and the half-timbered facades provides the ideal backdrop for the autumn market. In dry weather, the square quickly becomes busy, but even in rain, umbrellas and covered stalls maintain the crowd flow.