Weihnachtsmarkt Osterode am Harz

Christmas Market Tradition on the Kornmarkt

The Osterode am Harz Christmas Market is the most important pre-Christmas event in the West Harz town. The venue is the Kornmarkt in the historic old town center, which is framed by the half-timbered buildings of Osterode's inner city and whose market square character is ideal for a medium-sized Christmas market format.

Two-Story Mulled Wine Hut

The architectural trademark of the Osterode Christmas market is the two-story mulled wine hut – a unique structure in the West Harz Christmas market landscape, built by local associations and VTM Osterode on a self-help basis. The upper-floor terrace offers a special viewing and enjoyment spot in the middle of the market activities.

Market Stalls and Offerings

Several dozen wooden stalls offer a classic Christmas market selection: mulled wine (Glühwein), Feuerzangenbowle, punch, bratwurst, Schmalzbrot (lard bread), Reibekuchen (potato pancakes), candied almonds, gingerbread (Lebkuchen), Stollen (fruit bread), as well as craft products – wooden items, candles, felt articles, knitted goods, jewelry, and toys. The market is strongly influenced by voluntary association participation, which enables the associations to generate important seasonal income.

Opening Hours

The market is open Mondays to Fridays from 11 AM, Saturdays from 10 AM, and Sundays from 12 PM. These flexible opening hours facilitate visits outside of the classic weekends and contribute to continuous footfall.

Town Bet and Homecoming Party

The highlight of the 2026 season is the town bet with a subsequent Homecoming Party on December 20. The Homecoming Party is aimed at Osterode residents living in the diaspora who return home during the pre-Christmas period, creating a large social reunion occasion. This gives the Christmas market an unusual community character that sets it apart from comparable markets in the region.