Jul i byparken

Nestled in the heart of Stavanger, the Christmas market in Byparken transforms the city's beloved central park into a festive winter village each Advent season. Organized by Stavanger Sentrum AS under the banner of Julebyen Stavanger, the market has grown year over year and now spans the last four weekends before Christmas, making it the region's most anticipated holiday gathering. The market runs on a carefully structured schedule — Saturdays and Sundays during the first two weekends, then extended long weekends from Thursday through Sunday for the final two stretches. Weekday hours run 14:00–19:00, while weekends open earlier at 11:00 and close at 18:00, giving families plenty of time to explore. Wooden stalls, cozy tents, and colorful food trucks line the park's pathways, showcasing locally produced handicrafts, art, traditional Norwegian food, and artisanal gifts — all carefully curated to ensure quality and variety. Beyond shopping, the atmosphere is rich with seasonal entertainment. Horse-and-carriage rides circle the park for a nostalgic, fairytale touch, while live concerts and performances fill the air with festive music. Children can drop their wish lists into the Nissepostkassen (Santa's letterbox) right in Byparken. The market's central location — steps from Stavanger Cathedral and the historic harbour — makes it easy to pair with a stroll through the charming white-wooden streets of Gamle Stavanger. Entry to the market is free, and the emphasis on local producers and handmade goods gives it a distinctly authentic, community-rooted character that sets it apart from larger commercial markets.