Kläschenmarkt Lemgo

Kläschenmarkt — one of Germany's oldest Christmas markets

With its history dating back to 1365, the Kläschenmarkt in Lemgo is among the oldest documented Christmas markets in Germany — older than the famous Nuremberg Christkindlesmarkt (documented since 1628). The name "Kläschen" is the Lippe dialect form of Nikolaus (Saint Nicholas) — the market originally fell on Saint Nicholas' Day and still gives this medieval connection its identity today.

200 stalls, funfair and flea market — a unique event

What sets the Kläschenmarkt apart from ordinary Christmas markets: It's not "just" a Christmas market, but a hybrid event:

• Classic Christkindlmarkt with stalls, mulled wine, bratwurst, candied almonds
• Large flea market with gift items, toys, fashion, household goods
• Full-scale funfair with rides on Regentorplatz (Ferris wheel, carousels, bumper cars)

A total of approx. 200 exhibitors along a market street several kilometers long — stretching from Mittelstraße across Ostertor, Kastanienwall, and the Bleiche parking lot to Regentorplatz.

Dates — 1st Thursday to Sunday in December

The Kläschenmarkt 2026 runs from Thursday, December 3rd to Sunday, December 6th, 2026:

• Thursday, Dec 3rd — Opening from 11:00 AM
• Friday, Dec 4th – Saturday, Dec 5th — Daily market operations
• Sunday, Dec 6th — Late-night shopping 1 PM–6 PM (in addition to market operations)

On the market square, aid organizations serve mulled wine and drinks — proceeds benefit charitable causes in Lemgo.

Lemgo and its historical context

Lemgo is a town in the Lippe district with about 41,000 inhabitants and one of the best-preserved Weser Renaissance old towns in Germany. The famous Hexenbürgermeisterhaus (Witch Mayor's House) commemorates the witch hunts of the 17th century, and the town hall is an architectural masterpiece. The Kläschenmarkt uses the historic city center as its backdrop — the combination of medieval-Gothic architecture, burgher houses, festively illuminated alleys, and lively market life creates the charm that has attracted people for over six and a half centuries.