Bartenwetzer Christmas Market

Melsungen Christmas Market in the Winter Forest – Enchanting Advent Season in the Bartenwetzer Town
When over 400 festively decorated Christmas trees transform the marketplace and the surrounding streets into a sparkling sea of lights, and the scent of mulled wine, roasted almonds, and fir greenery wafts through the historic old town – then the most beautiful time of the year begins in Melsungen: the "Christmas Market in the Winter Forest."
From November 28 to December 23, 2025, the marketplace around the historic town hall will turn into a Christmas winter fairy tale. The unique half-timbered ensemble provides a charming backdrop for a market full of lights, music, and warmth.
A Winter Forest Full of Enjoyment, Craftsmanship, and Atmosphere
Over 350 Christmas trees, both large and small, create a cozy winter forest atmosphere. Covered "feeding troughs" invite visitors to eat, drink, and linger. In addition to classics like bratwurst, crêpes, mulled wine, hot cherry and apple wine, numerous culinary and artisanal discoveries await: artisans, clubs, and hobby crafters present decorative gift ideas, handmade textiles, homemade liqueurs, jams, cookies, and cakes – all crafted with love.
The Advent spirit is also palpable in the old town: In the small and large shops, visitors will find special gifts and personalized advice – a stroll that is well worth it. The offering is complemented by a popular Christmas exhibition that delights with jewelry, handicrafts, and decorative items from around the world.
Music, Fairy Tales, and Festive Moments
A diverse stage and supporting program ensures atmospheric hours every day. Visitors can look forward to musical highlights from:
Niklas Vaupel
Starlights Show & Party Band
Duo Funny Sample
Christmas Ensemble and the Santas of HarmonieMusik
Chris Chord
Paddy Schmidt
Duo WhyNotAcoustic
Duo Madison
and many other musicians and bands that are still being planned. The complete program will be published about two weeks before the start by the city management of Melsungen.
Note:
Live music will mainly take place from Thursday to Sunday this year. On the remaining days – Monday to Wednesday – royalty-free Christmas background music will create a festive atmosphere throughout the market area.
A special highlight is, as every year, the traditional opening on Friday, November 28, 2025. After the festive fanfare from the tower trumpeters, Mayor Timo Riedemann and the symbolic figure of the town, the Bartenwetzer, will officially welcome all guests to the start of the Advent season.
Every day – from Sunday to Thursday – the fanfares of the tower trumpeters will also sound at 7:00 PM from the town hall tower, filling the market with celebratory sounds.
For Children and Families
The youngest visitors will also have their fun: Two children's carousels will ensure shining eyes and Christmas joy.

In addition, the fairy tale aunt Iris invites children to a cozy story hour on three Fridays during Advent:
Friday, December 5
Friday, December 12
Friday, December 19, 2025
each from 5:00 PM to 6:00 PM in the town hall meeting room in Melsungen.
Participation is free. Registration is possible but not required – spontaneous visitors are warmly welcome!
Registration: Tourist Info Melsunger Land – Phone (05661) 9289890
P.S.: Children are allowed to come alone – a great opportunity for parents to enjoy a mulled wine in peace or to shop for a gift. Of course, a companion is also welcome.
Still Available Spots for Artisans
Although the application deadline has already passed, there are still opportunities for artisans to secure free booth spaces. Those who wish to offer creative, rustic, regional, or handmade items can contact the city management of Melsungen starting October 29, 2025, at 05661 / 708-203 or citymanagement@melsungen.de to inquire about available booth spaces. Special feature for 2025: Artisans do not pay a booth fee but only their consumption costs – a special incentive to be part of this atmospheric market.
Date of the Christmas Market: November 28 to December 23, 2025 (daily)

Opening Hours:
Snack & Beverage Stands:
Sunday – Thursday: 12:00 PM to 8:00 PM
Friday – Saturday: 12:00 PM to 10:00 PM
Artisan & Market Stands:
Monday – Sunday: 2:00 PM to 7:00 PM
The exact program will be announced soon!