Sternschnuppenmarkt

The Sternschnuppenmarkt — Wiesbaden's beloved Shooting Star Market — transforms the historic Schlossplatz and the square in front of the Marktkirche into a glittering winter wonderland each holiday season. Now in its 23rd edition, this atmospheric Christmas market in Wiesbaden draws visitors with its signature illuminated lily sculptures and four star-adorned entrance gates that frame the market in a warm, festive glow. Additional lights — including 20 small lilies in the pedestrian zone and 51 along Wilhelmstrasse — extend the magic well beyond the market itself. With more than 100 stalls spread across the Schlossplatz, the Sternschnuppenmarkt offers a rich mix of arts and crafts vendors, food and drink stands, and a traditional children's carousel. A traditional city nativity scene (Stadtkrippe) stands directly in front of the Christmas tree each year, adding a timeless centerpiece to the festivities. The daily entertainment program features choral performances, nativity plays, organ concerts, and Christmas story readings, while themed days such as '80s Christmas' and 'Irish Christmas' give the market a playful, eclectic energy. Families will appreciate the separate Kindersternschnuppenmarkt on Luisenplatz, which features a Winter Magic Stage, a shooting star express train, a children's carousel, and an enchanted gnome forest with twinkling light figures. Nearby on Mauritiusplatz, a 45-meter Ferris wheel offers panoramic views over the festively decorated city, while the Bowling Green in front of the Kurhaus hosts Germany's largest mobile ice rink. A free weekend shuttle connects all of Wiesbaden's Christmas attractions, making it easy to experience everything the city has to offer during the holiday season.