Weihnachtsmarkt Harsewinkel

The East Westphalian Pre-Christmas Season — Advent Market in the Combine Harvester City

The Weihnachtsmarkt Harsewinkel opens every year on the first weekend of Advent on the Alter Markt in the heart of the East Westphalian city. For 2026, the date is November 27 to 29 — the first weekend of Advent. The organizer is the Harsewinkel Business Association in cooperation with the city; it is a classic small-town Christmas market with local warmth and East Westphalian character.

Harsewinkel — The Combine Harvester City

Harsewinkel (around 26,000 inhabitants) is located in the Gütersloh district in East Westphalia-Lippe and is known as the "Combine Harvester City" — home of the agricultural machinery group CLAAS, one of the world's most important harvesting machine manufacturers. The city combines rural tradition with modern industry; the Christmas market on the Alter Markt is part of this local identity — a marketplace that is not dominated by tourism, but lives from its own citizens.

What to Find at the Market

Arts and Crafts and Gift Items

Local artisans present their works: handmade nativity scenes, ceramics, woodwork, knit and felt items, jewelry, candles — all gift ideas that are far from industrial mass-produced goods. An important marketing occasion for the regional arts and crafts scene.

Festive Treats

Classics of the German Christmas market:

• Glühwein in various variations — classic, white, children's punch
• Candied almonds and other sweets
• Potato pancakes with apple sauce
• Bratwurst and hearty dishes
• Lebkuchen, Stollen, cookies from regional bakeries

Stage Program

Regional choirs, music groups, and schools perform on a small stage — from classic Christmas carols to modern Advent pieces. The Business Association curates the program in consultation with local clubs and institutions.

Highlight for Children — St. Nicholas and Knecht Ruprecht

A special highlight: the visit of St. Nicholas with Knecht Ruprecht, traditionally on Saturday or Sunday afternoon. Children receive gifts, Nikolauspilzgebäck (a type of gingerbread), and the good feeling that Christmas is approaching. Parents document the event with their smartphones — one of the most beautiful memories of family Advent.

Opening Hours (Analogous to 2025)

• Friday, November 27, 2026: 4:00 PM – 10:00 PM
• Saturday, November 28, 2026: 2:00 PM – 10:00 PM
• Sunday, November 29, 2026: 2:00 PM – 9:00 PM (with Sunday shopping until 6:00 PM in the city center)

2026 opening hours will be officially updated in the fall of 2026.

The Alter Markt — A Historic Square

The Alter Markt in Harsewinkel is the central square of the city center, surrounded by historic houses, small shops, and restaurants. For the Christmas market, the square transforms into a tent of lights with wooden huts, fir trees, festive lighting, and a stage. An intimate atmosphere that matches the size of the city.

Free Admission — How Christmas Should Feel

The market is accessible free of charge — a conscious decision by the Business Association that Christmas should not be a commercial spectacle, but open to all. Donations are welcome but do not help with access.