Weihnachtsmarkt am Roland

Brandenburg an der Havel — Cradle of the Mark

Brandenburg an der Havel is the cradle of the Mark — the city that gave the federal state of Brandenburg its name. Three historic town centers (Altstadt, Neustadt, and Dominsel), surrounded by the Havel River, shape the medieval cityscape. The Altstädtischer Markt around the Old Town Hall from the 15th century is one of the most magnificent brick Gothic ensembles in Northern Germany. In front of it stands the stone Roland — a 5.35 m high sandstone monument from 1474, a symbol of the city's market rights and freedoms.

Weihnachtsmarkt am Roland

Against this backdrop, the Weihnachtsmarkt am Roland takes place annually on the 2nd Advent weekend. The organizer is the association Erlebnis Altstädtischer Markt Brandenburg an der Havel e.V., which enlivens the historic old town with various markets, festivals, and events. The Christmas market is part of the larger program "Weihnachtszauber Altstadt", which combines several Advent markets and activities throughout the entire Advent season.

Atmosphere and Program

At the market, you can expect:

• Large Christmas Tree on the Altstädtischer Markt — centrally illuminated, in front of the Town Hall facade.
• Christmas Pyramid with a classic carved figure carousel.
• Light Magic — illumination of the historic buildings and Gothic brick facades.
• Regional Delicacies: Brandenburg bratwurst, Spreewald pickles, honey, mead, mulled wine, Feuerzangenbowle.
• Crafts from regional providers: ceramics, wood carvings, felt, jewelry.
• Christmas Music on the market stage — brass bands, choirs, classical music, Christmas Jazz.
• Children's Program: blacksmithing, storytellers, puppet theater, children's carousel, children's train, elf workshop.
• Fouqué Library — readings and literary program in the neighboring historic library building.

Three Days of Advent in Brick Gothic

The market spans the 2nd Advent weekend, including Friday, Saturday, and Sunday. The setup follows the proven staging: stalls around the Roland, a stage in front of the Old Town Hall, fairy lights in the trees, and glowing fire baskets. The market is significantly smaller and quieter than the large markets in Berlin or Leipzig — but with a focus on atmosphere and regional products that is unique in northern Germany.

Brandenburg in Advent

Visitors to the Weihnachtsmarkt am Roland should take time to explore the city. The St. Peter and Paul Cathedral on the Dominsel — one of the oldest buildings in the Mark — is worth a visit when illuminated. The St. Catherine's Church in Neustadt is beautifully lit from the outside during Advent. Boat tours on the Havel no longer run in December, but a walk along the water between Altstadt and Neustadt is atmospheric even in winter. Those looking for accommodation will find several historically renovated hotels in the Altstadt.