Weihnachtsmarkt Wernigerode - Rimker Tor

The Wernigerode Christmas Market at Rimker Tor serves as a welcoming gateway into one of the Harz region's most beloved holiday celebrations, drawing visitors through a historic medieval gate into a festive world of lights, crafts, and seasonal cheer. Set against the backdrop of Wernigerode's colorful half-timbered architecture — earning the city its nickname 'the Colorful Town of the Harz' — this market location connects seamlessly with the broader Christmas market spread across the Marktplatz, Nicolaiplatz, and surrounding historic courtyards. The Wernigerode Christmas Market runs from late November through December 22, with Sunday through Thursday hours of 11:00 AM to 8:00 PM and extended Friday and Saturday hours until 9:00 PM. The market is closed on Totensonntag (the Sunday of Remembrance). More than 60 vendors and restaurateurs fill the historic squares with traditional handcrafted goods, regional culinary specialties, and warming Glühwein in multiple varieties. A dedicated stage in front of the historic Rathaus hosts live music and festive performances daily. Highlights include the charming Wernigeröder Lebkuchenwald (Gingerbread Forest) on Nicolaiplatz, where illuminated Christmas trees and gingerbread figures delight younger visitors. The Rathausinnenhof transforms into a cozy outdoor cinema — the Filmhof — screening Christmas classics including the beloved German film 'Die Feuerzangenbowle' every Friday evening. The Lichterkirche on Oberpfarrkirchhof dazzles with three-dimensional light sculptures of Harz wildlife. A living Advent calendar offers 24 free family experiences throughout the season. Arrive by train via the Harzer Schmalspurbahn narrow-gauge railway for a truly memorable approach to this enchanting market.