Lippstadt Christmas Market — Twinkling Lights and Chalet Magic

Lippstadt — An Advent City in the Southern Münsterland

Lippstadt, a medium-sized city of around 67,000 inhabitants in the Soest district (Arnsberg administrative region, Westphalia), is located at the transition from the Münsterland to the Sauerland region on the Lippe river. The historic city center with its neoclassical Rathausplatz and half-timbered houses provides a special Advent backdrop. The Lippstadt Christmas Market, running from November 25 to December 23, 2026, is one of the most beautiful Advent markets in Westphalia.

Four Weeks of Advent Atmosphere

With a duration of almost a month (November 25 to December 23), the market covers the entire Advent season. Opening hours 2026: Monday-Wednesday 2 PM-8 PM, Thursday-Friday 2 PM-9 PM, Saturday 12 PM-9 PM, Sunday 12 PM-8 PM. This staggered format allows for quieter weekdays and stronger weekend crowds.

Festively Illuminated Wooden Chalets at Rathausplatz

Around the historic Rathausplatz, festively illuminated wooden chalets adorn the streets. Approximately 40-50 exhibitors offer a wide range of Advent products: artistically designed wood and ceramic items, handmade jewelry, Christmas tree ornaments, winter clothing, liqueurs and jams from regional producers, classic Advent decorations (candle holders, Advent wreaths, straw stars, nativity scenes). The Lippstadt chalets have a supra-regional reputation, and the Advent atmosphere is considered particularly intense.

Advent Calendar at the Historic Town Hall

A highlight for all ages is the Advent calendar at the historic town hall. Every evening at 5 PM, a new window is opened—featuring a motif designed by Lippstadt students. This initiative has been successful for years, making the Rathausplatz a daily destination for families. Afterwards, visitors can warm up with mulled wine and hearty treats before the holidays.

Covered Ice Rink as a Family Highlight

A special highlight is the covered ice rink on the festival grounds—protected from rain and snow, ideal for families with children and beginners. The ice rink is included in the admission price (skate rental is extra) and is one of the main attractions of the Lippstadt Advent weeks. Those who want to combine the impression of a historic Christmas market with modern family offerings will find it here.

Moonlight Shopping on November 27

A special feature is the Moonlight Shopping on Friday, November 27, 2026. On this day, the Christmas market will remain open until 10 PM, deviating from the regular Thursday-Friday hours. The city center shops will complement this with their own promotions, extended opening hours, and special offers. Moonlight Shopping has been an established format for years, combining a late shopping evening with a special atmosphere.

Getting There

Lippstadt is easily accessible by train from Dortmund, Soest, Paderborn, and Hamm (RE/RB line Dortmund-Paderborn). By car: A 44 (exit Lippstadt-Süd or Lippstadt-Nord), paid parking garages in the city center. Travel time from the Ruhr area (Dortmund, Hamm) is about 30-45 minutes, from Paderborn 25 minutes.