Weihnachtsmarkt Schönenberg-Kübelberg

A Community in Advent

When the fairy lights on the Kulturhaus and the church tower of St. Valentin Church are lit on the 3rd Advent weekend, the Christmas tree on the forecourt unfolds its radiance, and the first mulled wine cauldrons are heated over an open fire, one of the most beautiful Advent festivals in the region begins in Schönenberg-Kübelberg. The municipality's Christmas market has become a tourist highlight over the years, attracting visitors from the entire Kusel district as well as from neighboring Saarland.

The Open-Air Nativity Village

Arguably the best-known feature of the Schönenberg Christmas market is the open-air nativity village. Small scenes are set up between the market stalls, telling the biblical Christmas story—from the Angel of Annunciation, the journey to Bethlehem, to the birth in the stable and the adoration by the shepherds and the Three Wise Men. The figures are partly life-size, the scenes are lovingly designed with wood, straw, and natural materials, and they are atmospherically illuminated in the dark. This staging creates a special atmosphere that makes many visitors return year after year.

Arts and Crafts and Specialties

The market stalls around the Kulturhaus and the church are mainly run by regional artisans and associations. Handmade Christmas decorations, gifts made of wood, ceramics, felt, and textiles, jewelry, honey, jams, and liqueurs characterize the assortment. The food stalls offer mulled wine, children's punch, Christmas hot drinks, bratwurst, potato pancakes, crêpes, waffles, and sweet pastries. Palatinate wine is a must.

Musical Program

Musical contributions are presented on a small stage or in the interior of the church throughout the weekend. Brass choirs, church choirs, a cappella ensembles, and possibly other music groups provide the acoustic accompaniment to the Advent atmosphere. The brass choir of the St. Valentin parish is frequently represented and shapes the mood with its Advent melodies.