Weihnachtsmarkt and Zwergenwald Bad Schwartau

A Fairytale Market in the North

What sets the Bad Schwartau Weihnachtsmarkt apart from the crowd is its unique centerpiece: the Zwergenwald. For almost three decades, a small world of its own has stood on the market square in the center of the East Holstein spa town — 25 richly detailed dwarf houses, in which 122 mechanically driven elves go about their daily tasks: carpenter, gardener, blacksmith, potter, weaver, doctor, school teacher, innkeeper. Each house tells its own story. Children and adults alike get lost in the lovingly arranged details.

The Market Itself

The actual Weihnachtsmarkt is grouped around the Zwergenwald, offering handmade products at various stalls, regional culinary specialties, and an ambitious stage program. Atmospheric live music and traditional choirs alternate with fire shows, magic tricks, and performances. The nearby Waldhotel Riesebusch contributes its specialties. A Schirmbar (umbrella bar) with extended opening hours — until midnight on weekends — ensures Advent atmosphere late into the evening.

Children's Program

There is a diverse program especially for young visitors: craft activities, carousel rides, and a visit from Santa Claus. An additional Nikolaus (St. Nicholas) event and, on weekends, a Christmas miniature train that takes families through the city center. Admission to the Zwergenwald is free.

Bad Schwartau in the Ostholstein District

Bad Schwartau is a spa town in the Ostholstein district in the state of Schleswig-Holstein, located directly north of Lübeck on the A1 motorway. Known for its Schwartau jams (the brand originated here) and its brine springs, which justify the "Bad" (spa) in its name, the town is one of the popular day-trip destinations from the entire Hamburg and Lübeck region during Advent.