50 years of the Moers Christmas market 2026: anniversary programme

Moers Christmas Market 2026 celebrates 50 years since its debut in 1976. The new edition opens in Moers city centre on Friday, 13 November. Until 22 December, more than 50 festively decorated stalls will turn Kastellplatz and Haagstraße and Meerstraße into a winter shopping and dining destination. Moers Marketing has announced an extensive family and special programme for the anniversary.

50 years of Moers Christmas Market 2026

The first Moers Christmas Market was held at Neumarkt in 1976. It later moved to the larger Kastellplatz. For its 50-year anniversary, the market is returning to this familiar location. The official opening takes place at the mulled wine pyramid on 13 November at 17. Mayor Julia Zupancic will be there. Afterwards, you can browse the stalls for decorations, gift ideas and handmade products. Rotating charity huts also give non-profit organisations the chance to present their work.

Medieval market and Dickens weekend

A highlight follows from 27 to 29 November: a medieval arts and crafts market featuring a blacksmith, weaving, stoneworking and hands-on activities is planned at Schlossplatz. The “Christmas magic with Charles Dickens” also returns on 12 and 13 December. At Schlossplatz and in the castle, you can meet Victorian-style characters and explore special market stalls. A Sunday shopping event is also planned for Sunday, 13 December.

Family programme at Moers Christmas Market 2026

Children are well catered for too. Moers Marketing lists two children's carousels, Bruno the fairy-tale tree and daily performances by the Homberger Kasperbühne. On 6 December, St Nicholas will hand out small gifts to young visitors from 14. There is also an ice rink and a green Christmas sleigh as a photo opportunity. Some special offers may have separate prices.

Opening hours and planning your visit

The market is open Sundays to Thursdays from 12 to 20, and Fridays and Saturdays from 12 to 22. It is closed on Sunday of the Dead, 22 November. This gives you plenty of opportunities to visit the stalls and enjoy the changing activities. You can find an overview of dates and event details on our Moers Christmas Market 2026 event page. Official information and any changes are published by Moers Marketing.

Digital Advent calendar

There is also a digital Advent calendar from 1 to 24 December, with surprises from showmen and shops in the city centre. According to the organiser, the promotion runs via the 24doors app and the code MSMR-2026. This lets you combine a visit to the Christmas market with other offers in the city centre.

Source: press release from Moers Marketing dated 29.10.2026 (original announcement).