Manufakturen-Weihnachtsmarkt at Schönhausen Palace Park

Schönhausen Palace — a Hidden Berlin Gem

Schönhausen Palace in Pankow is one of Berlin's lesser-known Prussian palaces — and that's precisely what makes it so appealing. The estate dates back to the 17th century, was expanded by Frederick the Great for his wife Elisabeth Christine, and served as the seat of the Council of State during the GDR era — Wilhelm Pieck lived here until 1960, and reunification negotiations were held here in 1989. Today, it is open as a museum, and the surrounding palace park is one of Berlin's most beautiful parklands.

Manufactories Instead of Mass-Produced Goods

The Manufakturen-Weihnachtsmarkt deliberately differs from the large Berlin Advent markets: no 100 standard stalls with mulled wine and hot sausage, but a carefully curated selection of around 40 regional artisans and manufactories from Berlin and Brandenburg. Here you'll find ceramics, jewelry, leather goods, textiles, woodwork, regional food products, organic honey, handmade chocolate, and Advent wreaths of artisanal quality — gifts instead of consumer routine.

6th Edition — a Growing Berlin Tradition

The market will be held for the 6th time in 2026. It was launched in 2021 by the Berliner Netzwerk in collaboration with the Pankow district office — as a deliberate response to the growing demand for regional, artisanal Advent markets in the growing, young Berlin consumer scene. The date for 2026 has not yet been officially published as of Spring 2026; the 2025 edition took place on November 29-30.

Palace Tour Included

A special advantage of this market: Schönhausen Palace is open during market days and can be visited. This combines a visit to the Advent market with one of Berlin's most culturally and historically interesting palace tours — from the baroque ballroom to the GDR Council of State chambers. Admission to the market €2, children under 18 free. Palace admission is separate via the Foundation of Prussian Palaces and Gardens.

Pankow — Berlin's Northeast Between Bourgeois Houses and Plattenbau

Pankow is part of Berlin's most populous district of Pankow and is located in the north of the city. The Niederschönhausen district — where the palace is located — is a rather quiet residential area with bourgeois houses, villas, and spacious green areas. Those coming from Prenzlauer Berg can reach it in 25 minutes by tram; from Mitte, about 35 minutes. Schönhausen Palace Park is a classic Berlin Sunday destination.