Hökermarkt Vegesack

Hökern in the Vegesack Pedestrian Zone

Höken — the old Low German word for small trade, peddler's business, and haggling — is on the agenda in Vegesack twice a year. A 'Höker' was formerly a small trader who offered his goods on the street or outside his door; this very image is revived by the market today. During the Hökermarkt, the retailers of Vegesack's pedestrian zone set up tables in front of their shops and offer goods from previous seasons, decorative items, and individual finds from their business stock. The big 'Hökern' along Gerhard-Rohlfs-Straße kicks off at 10 a.m. — a fixed date in the shopping calendar of the state of Bremen.

Bargains, Browsing, and Supporting Program

The appeal of the Hökermarkt lies in browsing: Between discounted seasonal goods and unusual individual pieces, many a treasure can be found. A popular highlight is the ADFC bicycle flea market, including free bicycle coding by the Bremen-Nord police on the ellipse in Gerhard-Rohlfs-Straße. The autumn edition is often combined with the nationwide 'Heimat shoppen' (Shop Local) campaign, which strengthens local retail. A convivial festive atmosphere arises around the market, enlivening Vegesack's city center.

Hanseatic Trading Spirit in Bremen North

Vegesack has always thrived on trade and the water: The Vegesack harbor was commissioned in 1622/23 and is considered the first harbor in Germany planned on a greenfield site; later, the town became a base for Arctic whaling and a significant shipbuilding location. The Hökermarkt builds on this Hanseatic spirit: a traditional, uncomplicated shopping festival where businesses bring their treasures to the street and the neighborhood comes together for a stroll.

Atmosphere and Audience

The atmosphere is relaxed and neighborly: Bargain hunters, families, and day-trippers from Bremen North stroll through the historic pedestrian zone with coffee and snacks. Spring and autumn thus mark a convivial highlight twice a year in one of the most historic harbor towns in the state of Bremen.