Neumarkter Weihnachtsmarkt (Christkindlesmarkt)

The "Christmas City" in the Upper Palatinate

Neumarkt in der Oberpfalz is a small town with just under 41,000 inhabitants, halfway between Nuremberg and Regensburg. During Advent, the town consciously presents itself as a "Christmas City" with its own character — as an alternative to the larger, more commercial markets in Nuremberg or Bamberg. The concept: a cozy, personal market in the heart of the historic old town with a campfire atmosphere, rather than large stages and mass crowds.

Rathausplatz, Münsterplatz, and Alpine Hut Atmosphere

The Neumarkter Weihnachtsmarkt occupies two squares in the city center: the Rathausplatz with its lovingly decorated wooden stalls and the central fire pit where mulled wine is served, and the Münsterplatz in front of the parish church of St. Johannes Baptist, where an arts and crafts market is set up from Thursday to Sunday. The atmosphere is deliberately like an "Alpine hut in the city" — rustic wood, warm light, atmospheric Christmas music in the background.

Four Weeks of Advent Program

The market runs for four full weeks, from November 26 to December 23, 2026 — longer than most smaller markets and shorter than the Nuremberg Christkindlesmarkt. With different opening hours on weekdays (Mon–Wed 2–8 PM, Thu–Fri 2–9 PM) and weekends (Sat 1–9 PM, Sun 1–8 PM), it offers the right time slot for every Advent outing. The Neumarkter Christkind is a regular guest and greets visitors — a local tradition.

Mulled Wine, Almonds, and Arts and Crafts

Culinary expectations are met with the classic selection: roasted almonds, mulled wine made from regional wines or as children's punch, gingerbread, bratwurst rolls, chestnuts, crêpes, regional cookies. The arts and crafts assortment at Münsterplatz ranges from wood carvings and nativity scenes to jewelry, wool products, ceramics, and textile work. Atmospheric concerts by the town band, local choirs, and schools accompany the weekends.

Neumarkt — An Advent City for Adults and Families

Those who dislike the crowds of Nuremberg will find an alternative Advent experience with character in Neumarkt. The town itself is small enough to explore on foot in a few hours, with the Münster St. Johannes Baptist, the historic town hall, and the well-preserved old town. The "Christmas City" staging also includes the lighting of the old town, nativity scene exhibitions in several churches, and special performances in the Reitstadel.