Skip to content

North Rhine-Westphalia’s Christmas markets gear up for a record season with 40M visitors

From Cologne’s iconic cathedral market to Dortmund’s towering LED-lit tree, this year’s celebrations promise magic—and record crowds. Will you be among them?

There are persons in different color dresses. Some of them are holding placards. On the right side,...
There are persons in different color dresses. Some of them are holding placards. On the right side, there is an iron fence. In the background, there is a building which is having glass windows, there is a light, there is a hoarding and there is a Christmas tree.

North Rhine-Westphalia’s Christmas markets gear up for a record season with 40M visitors

Christmas markets across North Rhine-Westphalia are preparing for a record-breaking season. Over 40 million visitors are expected to attend this year’s events. Many cities have expanded their offerings with new attractions, improved security, and more payment options.

Cologne will host 17 separate markets, including its famous cathedral location, which alone anticipates four million guests. Nearby, Aachen’s market is renowned for its spiced gingerbread (Printen) and a mix of French and regional treats. Dortmund’s centrepiece is the world’s largest Christmas tree, constructed from red spruces and covered in thousands of LED lights.

This year’s Christmas markets in North Rhine-Westphalia promise a mix of tradition and innovation. With expanded attractions, tighter security, and easier payment methods, organisers aim to welcome millions of visitors. The region’s most celebrated events will run from late November through December.

Read also: