Wendlinger Christmas Market 2026

Wendlingen's Advent Tradition on the First Advent Weekend

The Wendlinger Christmas Market takes place annually on the first Advent weekend on the central Marktplatz (market square) of the town of Wendlingen am Neckar. In 2026, the market runs from Thursday, December 3rd, to Sunday, December 6th, 2026. The organizer is the town of Wendlingen am Neckar.

Market Square as a Festive Backdrop

The Wendlingen Marktplatz, with its distinctive town hall, parish church, and surrounding half-timbered houses, forms the festive backdrop for the Christmas market. Decorated wooden stalls create market islands where exhibitors present their Christmas offerings: cards, figures, and decorations made of felt, handmade Christmas cribs, ceramics, wood crafts, candles, Advent wreaths, and jewelry. The gastronomic offerings include classic Christmas market fare—bratwurst, crêpes, potato pancakes, gingerbread, mulled wine, punch, and non-alcoholic hot drinks.

Live Sheep and Traditional Carousel

A special feature of the Wendlinger Christmas Market: the nativity scene with live sheep. In front of the town hall, a small nativity scene is set up where real sheep—usually from local farms—bring the Christmas story to life for children and adults. Next to it, a traditional carousel turns—a classic wooden carousel atmosphere reminiscent of the Advent markets of past generations.

Musical Program — Choirs, Schools, Churches

On all four days, local choirs, school classes, and church communities provide musical accompaniment. Advent songs, school performances with a nativity play character, and church choral singing rotate in the program. The mix of traditional and community music shapes the market's family-friendly atmosphere.

Wendlingen am Neckar — Industrial Town in the Middle Neckar Region

Wendlingen am Neckar (Esslingen district, registration number 08116, around 16,000 inhabitants) is located in the middle Neckar valley between Plochingen and Kirchheim unter Teck. The town is characterized by industry (felt factories, mechanical engineering), but has preserved a charming ensemble in its historic town center around the market square, which is particularly highlighted during Advent. From Wendlingen train station—an important hub on the S-Bahn line S 1 Stuttgart–Plochingen—it is a 5-minute walk to the market square.