Paderborn Christmas Market

Paderborn Christmas Market — Advent Magic Under the Cathedral

From November 20 to December 23, 2026, the Paderborn city center will transform into one of the most beautiful Advent landscapes in Ostwestfalen-Lippe. The venue is the historic center around the Cathedral and Town Hall — both landmarks of a city that has been one of Westphalia's most important religious centers since the Middle Ages.

The 20m High Christmas Pyramid

The most spectacular architectural element of the market is the 20-meter-high Paderborn Christmas Pyramid made of real wood with six floors. It is one of the largest of its kind in Germany and an architectural statement: while many cities make do with smaller pyramids, Paderborn rebuilds annually, thus attracting attention far beyond the city limits.

The Illuminated Cathedral — The Iconic Image

The Paderborn Cathedral with its 92m high tower is the absolute landmark of the city. During Advent, it is specially illuminated — the smoky grey-green sandstone facade glows warmly in the darkness, and the tower majestically overlooks the market square. The photo 'Christmas Pyramid in front of the illuminated Cathedral' is the best picture you can take at the market.

The Town Hall as the Region's Largest Advent Calendar

A special tradition: the Town Hall becomes the region's largest Advent calendar. A window opens daily on the Renaissance facade — behind each, a small artistic staging is hidden. A wonderful activity for families who visit the Advent calendar every day.

Over 80 Stalls and 60 Stars

Around the Cathedral and Town Hall, there are over 80 stalls — arts and crafts, Christmas items, food, and drinks. The Star Alley with about 60 stars (large, illuminated stars hanging between the houses) connects the market areas. Festive LED lighting throughout the city center enhances the Advent atmosphere.

Historic Carousel and Ferris Wheel

For children, there is a historic carousel that is over 100 years old — a true heirloom that is set up anew each year. Next to it, a classic Ferris wheel offers a great view of the city center and the Cathedral.

Cathedral Tower Trumpeters' Christmas Carol Sing-along

A special date: the Christmas Carol Sing-along with the Cathedral Tower Trumpeters on December 19. The trumpeters play Christmas carols from the Cathedral tower, and visitors sing along in the market square. A moving moment that makes the market more than just a commercial event.

Paderborn — Imperial and Episcopal City

Paderborn is a city of about 153,000 inhabitants in Ostwestfalen-Lippe and the seat of the Archdiocese of Paderborn. The city has an exceptional historic core — the Cathedral's origins date back to the 9th century; it was here that Charlemagne was crowned Emperor by Pope Leo III (preparation 799). Today, Paderborn is also a university city — the Christmas market attracts a mixed audience of citizens, students, and tourists from all over the country.