Christmas Markets in Mainz

Mainz's main and most celebrated Christmas market, held on the squares surrounding the 1,000-year-old Cathedral of St. Martin since 1788. The market is known for its dramatic cathedral backdrop, a central pole with radiating fairy lights, a large nativity scene, wine barrel seating huts, and high-quality regional crafts including local honey and beeswax products. Concerts, stage events, and a traditional fairy tale production at the State Theatre accompany the festive season.

The Mainzer WinterZeit is an umbrella brand for four smaller, neighborhood-style Christmas markets spread across Mainz city center, complementing the main historic market at the cathedral. Each location has its own character and hours, with the train station location staying open latest (until 10pm daily). Together these markets attracted 416,000 visitors in 2024.

WinterZeit market at the central train station forecourt, open daily from 11am until 10pm; runs through December 23 and again December 27–30

Smaller WinterZeit location open daily from 1pm; runs only through December 23

Intimate WinterZeit market in the courtyard of the Electoral Palace, open daily from 1pm; runs through December 23 and again December 27–30

The most notable of the WinterZeit locations, open daily from 11am; runs through December 23 and again December 27–30

A newer addition to Mainz's Christmas season, the Neuwintermarkt on Neubrunnenplatz was highlighted as a special attraction in 2024 and continues in 2025. It operates with the same hours as the main WinterZeit markets and runs through December 23, reopening December 27–30, offering visitors another festive destination in the city center.