Perleberg Christmas Market

Perleberg — the Roland City in the Prignitz

Perleberg is the district town of the Prignitz district in northwestern Brandenburg, a small town with just under 12,000 inhabitants and a long history. At its center is the Großer Markt with the Roland statue from 1498 — a symbol of urban freedom, one of the oldest and best-preserved Rolands in Northern Germany — and the late Gothic brick town hall. Surrounding it are three-aisled burgher houses, small cafés, and St. Jacobi Church. In the first two weeks of December, this market square becomes the stage for one of the region's most beautiful Christmas markets.

Five Days of Advent Market in the Historic Center

The Perleberg Christmas Market attracts thousands of visitors annually from across the Prignitz and the neighboring regions of Saxony-Anhalt and Mecklenburg-Vorpommern. Festively decorated wooden huts are arranged around the Roland statue, illuminated fir trees, a large Christmas tree, fairy lights — the setting is a picture-perfect Brandenburg scene. The stalls offer Christmas items, regional handicrafts, local baked goods, and specialties. At the food stands, you'll find bratwurst, Schmalzkuchen (a type of fried pastry), candied almonds, crêpes, and of course, hot mulled wine. For children, there's a carousel and craft activities.

Program — Tradition and Opening

The festive opening is traditionally organized by Mayor Axel Schmidt together with children from Perleberg's kindergartens and schools — a small ceremony that ushers in the market. Throughout the five days, there's a varied stage program: choirs, brass quartets, storytelling sessions, Christmas music, and performances by regional clubs and schools. The weekend offers a full program, while weekdays have a quieter and cozier atmosphere — perfect for local families who want to enjoy a mulled wine in peace.

Getting Here and Shopping

Perleberg is reachable by train from Berlin in about 1.5 hours (RE 4 / RB 73). Those arriving by car can park around the old town — the pedestrianized city center is small and manageable. If you're looking for a market beyond the crowded big-city Christmas markets, you'll find a Northern German version here with genuine local character — local products, local clubs, local children on stage. A city tour of the Roland, St. Jacobi Church, and the former monastery complex is an ideal addition.