Saarlouis Christmas Market

Fortress City in a Glow of Lights

Saarlouis, the former fortress city of Sébastien Le Prestre de Vauban, has a special charm. When the sun sets early over the Saar and the fairy lights at the Kleiner Markt are switched on, the baroque ensemble unfolds its full magic. Right here – between historic facades and casemates – beats the heart of the Saarland's Christmas business.

More Than Just a Market

The Saarlouis Christmas Market differs from many other German Christmas markets in that it is conceived as a complete experience. Over 50 stalls offer gift items, handicrafts, Christmas decorations, and culinary specialties – from bratwurst and tarte flambée to crêpes and the Saarland's secret weapon, Lyoner sausage. On weekends, a stage program with local musicians and choirs provides a festive atmosphere.

The Ice Arena – A Highlight for Families

The absolute showpiece is the mobile ice surface: 800 square meters of ice in the middle of the city, the largest of its kind in Saarland. Skate rental on site, day tickets available, evening ice discos with DJ music – the ice arena attracts families, school classes, and ice skating enthusiasts from the entire Saarlouis district and beyond. Those who prefer to watch can order a mulled wine in the adjacent alpine hut.

Alpine Hut and Champagne Gondola

The alpine hut seats 100 guests, smells of wood stove and fireplace, and serves classic winter dishes like cheese sandwiches, liverwurst sandwiches, and cheese fondue for two. For special occasions, the Champagne Lounge is available – a converted cable car gondola, wood-paneled, heated, rentable by the hour for private dinners for two or small parties. This is the kind of attention to detail that sets the Saarlouis market apart from the crowd.

The Spangenberger Family as Hosts

Frank, Jonny, and Mike Spangenberger run the market as a family business. Their roots in the showman trade and their close ties to the region shape the entire event – from the wood of the stalls to the selection of vendors. The majority of stallholders come from Saarland, neighboring Lorraine, and Rhineland-Palatinate, with a focus on regional products.

Saarlouis in the District of Saarlouis

Saarlouis is the district town of Saarlouis in Saarland and, with a population of just over 35,000, one of the most important medium-sized towns between Saarbrücken and Trier. The city attracts visitors from Saarland, neighboring France, and Luxembourg throughout Advent – the Christmas market is one of the most important Advent attractions in the entire greater region.