Klever Weihnachtsmarkt

Klever Tradition since 1975

The Klever Weihnachtsmarkt will take place for the 51st time in 2026 – a tradition that has been an integral part of the Lower Rhine Advent season since the mid-1970s. The organizer is Wirtschaft, Tourismus & Marketing Stadt Kleve GmbH (WTM Kleve), which works with dedication and creativity on new ideas, decorations, and offerings.

Two Squares, One Market

The concept: two central squares in the city center are used. The Koekkoekplatz around the Koekkoek House with its classicist city ambiance, and the adjacent Pastor-Leinung-Platz. The walkable connection ensures that visitors can stroll relaxedly between the two areas with a glass of mulled wine in hand – without long distances, but with plenty of atmosphere.

Lower Rhine and the Netherlands Right Next Door

Kleve is located in the far west of NRW, in the Kleve district – the Dutch border (Nijmegen, Arnhem) is only a few kilometers away. The Kleve market accordingly attracts a Dutch audience, giving the event an international flair. Signage and services are partly bilingual.

Program Highlights

In addition to the market activities, the program includes: choir performances by regional ensembles, arts and crafts stalls with Lower Rhine producers, a visit from St. Nicholas for children with small gifts, and themed special event days. The exact daily program will be published shortly before the market opens at kleverweihnachtsmarkt.de.

Kleve – City on the Lower Rhine

With around 51,000 inhabitants, Kleve is one of the important medium-sized towns in the Lower Rhine region, home to the Rhein-Waal University of Applied Sciences, and known for the Schwanenburg, the city's landmark. The city center was rebuilt after the destruction of World War II – the Christmas market is part of the vibrant city center.

Culinary Delights

Mulled wine and children's punch are a must, along with potato pancakes with apple sauce (a Lower Rhine specialty), bratwurst, roasted almonds, doughnuts, crêpes, mushrooms in cream, and sweets. The Lower Rhine cuisine meets Christmas classics – including Dutch stroopwafels and poffertjes.