Weihnachtswelten Lübeck - Wichtelwunderland

Tucked away in the historic Jakobikirchhof (St. Jacob's Churchyard) in Lübeck's UNESCO World Heritage old town, the Wichtelwunderland is a dedicated children's wonderland within the broader Weihnachtswelten Lübeck Christmas market experience. Unlike the bustling traditional markets nearby, this enchanting corner is designed exclusively for families with children aged 3 to 12, offering a gentler, more magical atmosphere away from the crowds. The centerpiece of the Wichtelwunderland is a free mini-golf course — expanded in 2025 with two new holes — where children can play amid festive decorations without any extra cost to families. The beloved character Oberwichtel Gustav (Head Gnome Gustav) presides over the Wichtelwerkstatt (Gnome Workshop), where kids can participate in hands-on crafting and creative workshops that bring the spirit of Christmas to life. The entire area is generously supported by the Possehl-Stiftung foundation, which helps keep activities accessible and free for visiting families. Set against the backdrop of the medieval St. Jakobi church, the Wichtelwunderland runs from late November through December 30, closing only on Christmas Eve and Christmas Day. It forms part of Lübeck's impressive lineup of eleven distinct Christmas worlds, all connected by festive lighting, over a thousand decorated fir trees, and roughly half a million twinkling lights throughout the old town. Families arriving by public transit can reach the market easily on foot from the main train station in about 15–20 minutes, or take advantage of the free Christmas shuttle bus running on event Saturdays. Plan to combine a visit here with the nearby Märchenwald fairy-tale forest at St. Marien for a full family-friendly Christmas afternoon.