Cologne – Heinzels Wintermärchen 2027

Heinzels Wintermärchen 2027 is expected to take place from Monday, 22 November 2027, to Sunday, 9 January 2028, at Alter Markt and Heumarkt in Cologne. The date follows the pattern of previous years, and the opening hours and two-part market layout are based on the 2026/27 season; there is no official confirmation yet for 2027/28. The event is particularly well known for its ice landscape and Heinzelmännchenwelt.

Heinzels Wintermärchen 2027: expected season dates

In winter 2026\/27, Heinzels Wintermärchen opened on 23 November. Alter Markt was open until 23 December, while Heumarkt remained open until 10 January. For the new season, we have used the same Monday start and the same final January weekend for planning. This gives a run from 22 November 2027 to 9 January 2028. These dates are not yet a binding announcement from the organiser. The two market areas may also close on different days.

Alter Markt with Heinzelmännchen and crafts

The story of the Cologne Heinzelmännchen is a central theme at Alter Markt. Themed market lanes evoke traditional trades, crafts and small gift ideas. In previous years, craftspeople demonstrated how they made their products at their stalls. You can browse for Christmas gifts here amid the atmospheric old-town setting and enjoy the historic surroundings. Alter Markt is a separate part of the overall market. It traditionally runs for less time than Heumarkt, particularly after Christmas.

Heinzels Wintermärchen 2027: ice rink and attractions

Heumarkt is known for its large ice rink, with connecting paths, curling and a bridge over the ice. For the 2026\/27 season, an ice area of around 1.800 square metres was announced. The market also featured a children's carousel and a small Ferris wheel. It has not yet been officially confirmed whether the same attractions will return in 2027\/28. We therefore have not carried over ride details from previous years. Before your visit, you should also check the current ice rink ticket prices.

Heinzelmännchen, themed streets and family activities

The legend of the Heinzelmännchen is the market's central theme. Visitors will see these little, industrious figures at many stalls and in the decorations. The lanes evoke traditional trades and the city's history. There is plenty for children to discover, including nostalgically styled rides and wintry photo spots. A dedicated programme with exact event times has not yet been published for 2027. We therefore do not list old performance times as current programme events.

Treats in Cologne's old town

A stroll through Heinzels Wintermärchen takes you past many food and drink stalls. In previous years, these offered baked goods, savoury specialities and hot drinks. Different market lanes had their own themes, such as a sweets lane or a crafts lane. It is not yet known which traders and products will feature in the new season. Thanks to its location between Alter Markt and Heumarkt, you can also combine a visit to the market with a walk to the Rhine and other sights in Cologne's old town.

Admission, opening times and Christmas days

General admission to the Christmas market was free in 2026, while the ice rink and other activities had to be paid for separately. Provisional opening times, as of 2026\/27: both market areas opened daily from 11 to 22. After 30 December, Heumarkt had shorter opening hours, closing at 21. The entire winter market was closed on 24 and 25 December. The calendar lists Alter Markt as open until 23 December and Heumarkt until early January; the new season still needs to be confirmed.

Getting to Heumarkt and Alter Markt

Both market areas are in Cologne's old town and are easily connected on foot. From the main station, you can reach them with a walk towards the cathedral and town hall. KVB line 5 and bus routes 136 and 146 serve stops nearby. If you are driving, you can use the car parks at Heumarkt, but expect heavy city-centre traffic, especially at weekends. Public transport is recommended for a longer visit.

You can find all the latest details on the official organiser's website. Our event calendar shows you even more winter markets and funfairs..