The Sternenwald (Starlit Forest) is one of Lübeck's most enchanting Christmas market zones, nestled on the Schrangen square in the heart of the UNESCO World Heritage Old Town. Unlike a conventional market, this atmospheric setting transforms the area into a glittering forest of fir trees, twinkling lights, and festive warmth, offering a distinctly cozy counterpoint to the bustle of the surrounding Weihnachtswelten. Framed by the iconic twin towers of St. Mary's Church, the Sternenwald invites visitors to slow down and linger amid the evergreen scenery. A dedicated Glühwein bar and a charming Forsthaus (forest house) serve as gathering points, while generous seating areas make it easy to settle in with a warm drink and soak up the magical atmosphere. The scent of pine mingles with mulled wine and seasonal treats as guests browse the stalls and enjoy the illuminated surroundings. The Merry Vereinshütte, run by the volunteer agency ePunkt in cooperation with Lübeck Tourism, is also located on the Schrangen, where local clubs and initiatives present themselves daily during market hours — adding a genuine community spirit to the experience. The UNICEF Christmas post office, where children can send letters to Santa Claus, operates here through early December. As part of Lübeck's broader Christmas City of the North celebration — featuring eleven distinct Christmas worlds, over a thousand fir trees, and roughly half a million lights — the Sternenwald is open from late November through December 30, closed on December 24 and 25. Arrive by the free Christmas shuttle on event Saturdays for a stress-free visit.
Free entry
P+R parking available at Lohmühle (An der Hansehalle, Autobahn exit Lübeck-Zentrum) and Einsiedelstraße. Free Christmas shuttle bus runs every 10 minutes on event Saturdays from both P+R lots directly to the Old Town market area (stops: Sandstraße and Koberg/Königstraße). The market is also a 15–20 minute walk from Lübeck Hauptbahnhof.
Part of Weihnachtswelten Lübeck
Traditioneller Weihnachtsmarkt
Weihnachtsmarkt am Marienkirchhof
Wichtelwunderland
Maritimer Weihnachtsmarkt
Hafenglühen
Kunsthandwerkermarkt St. Petri
Kunsthandwerkermarkt Heiligen-Geist-Hospital
Lübsche Wiehnacht
Weihnachtsmarkt Schiff Ahoi
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