Halle (Saale) – Winter Forest at Hallmarkt 2026
What to expect
Winterwald am Hallmarkt 2026 takes place from 24.11.2026 to 30.12.2026 in Halle (Saale). Winterwald am Hallmarkt is a separate Christmas market area in Halle city centre. In this overview, you can find information about rides, market stalls and how to get there.
Winterwald am Hallmarkt 2026: A winter wonderland at Hallmarkt
Winterwald am Hallmarkt is a separate Christmas market area in the centre of Halle. During Advent, Hallmarkt is decorated with Christmas stalls, sparkling lights and rides. Unlike the traditional Hallesche Christmas market on the market square, this area has more of a funfair atmosphere and focuses on winter food and drink. So if you are looking for rides, you should consider the two locations in Halle separately. The official information from the city covers this edition until 30 December.
Winterwald am Hallmarkt 2026: The large Ferris wheel
The city of Halle has announced a Ferris wheel about 55 metres high at Hallmarkt for 2026. This makes the square an especially appealing destination for a Christmas outing with a view. The ride offers an unusual perspective over the city centre. A children's carousel and the Weihnachtshotel funhouse are also part of the announced line-up. Local event information also describes a skills course. This combination gives Winterwald a distinct funfair feel.
Winterwald am Hallmarkt 2026: Food, drink and stalls
Sweet and savoury food is on offer at the festively decorated winter stalls. The official list includes bratwurst, churros, Handbrot, confectionery and various hot drinks. Covered seating areas provide places to take a break during your visit. Overall, Winterwald has a sociable feel: you can meet friends at the stalls and try the rides as well. Prices for individual products and rides are set by the respective operators.
How it differs from the Hallesche Christmas market
The Hallesche Christmas market on the market square is only a few minutes' walk away. It runs at different times and has its own programme, including six rides. Winterwald am Hallmarkt runs for longer and should not be confused with the Hallesche Wintermarkt, which only starts on the market square after Christmas. However, the locations are close enough for you to visit several Christmas market areas in one trip.
Free entry and special opening days
The public Winterwald is free to enter; rides and food and drink cost extra. Opening times vary depending on the day of the week. There are two planned closing days during Christmas week: Christmas Eve and Christmas Day. The winter attractions reopen after that. If you are travelling on a public holiday, it is especially worth checking the official event calendar for the city of Halle.
Location, public transport and visitor information
Hallmarkt is in the centre of Halle (Saale), with a tram stop of the same name nearby. From there, the rides and market stalls are easy to reach. The central market square is also close by. You can find more winter funfairs and Christmas markets in the funfair calendar. The official overview from the City of Halle lists the confirmed dates, times and attractions.
Highlights at a glance
What Winterwald am Hallmarkt has to offer
- Ferris wheel
- Children's area / fairy-tale forest
More to experience in Halle (Saale)
AdvertisingImpressions
1 image
Getting there & services
Tram: Travel to the Hallmarkt stop, right by the event venue. Check your current connection and possible diversions in the HAVAG journey planner.
Train: From Halle (Saale) main station, you can continue into the city centre to Hallmarkt by public transport.
Car & park and ride: If possible, use a HAVAG park-and-ride car park, for example at the Beesen, Büschdorf, Kröllwitz or Trotha termini, and continue by tram. The city centre may be busier during Advent.
Frequently asked questions
When does Winterwald am Hallmarkt 2026 open?
From 24 November to 30 December 2026 in Halle (Saale). The market is closed on 24 and 25 December.
What are the opening times?
Monday to Thursday 12–21 hrs, Friday 12–22 hrs, Saturday 11–22 hrs and Sunday 11–20 hrs; closed on 24 and 25 December.
How tall is the Ferris wheel?
The city of Halle has announced a 55-metre-high Ferris wheel at Hallmarkt for 2026.
What other rides are there?
A children's carousel and the Weihnachtshotel funhouse have been officially announced. A skills course is also listed.
Is admission to Winterwald free?
Yes, entry to the market is free. The Ferris wheel, carousel, food and drinks cost extra.
Where is Hallmarkt?
At Hallmarkt, 06108 Halle (Saale), right next to the Hallmarkt tram stop.
What is the difference between Winterwald and the Hallesche Christmas market?
Winterwald is a separate market at Hallmarkt, with a Ferris wheel and a longer run; the city's Christmas market is at the market square and Ulrichskirche.
