Overview
- Essen-Steele opened on November 2 as one of the first markets nationwide, was officially launched by Mayor Thomas Kufen, and saw heavy turnout with organizers urging travel by public transport.
- The Christmas market at Schloss Bodelschwingh in Dortmund is canceled for two years due to renovation work, while Hof Menken in Castrop-Rauxel will stage a new ‘Landweihnacht’ from November 27–30.
- Hamburg’s Rahlstedt ‘Winterterrassen’ has been discontinued permanently after stand operators reported revenues that were too low to continue.
- Düsseldorf’s market is adding barrier-free features developed with the city’s social services office, including under-table standing tables, ramps at many stands, accessible WCs, and Braille menus.
- New draws and promotions include Essen’s outdoor ‘Glühwein-Krimi’ escape game, Paderborn/Lippstadt airport’s ‘Adventszauber’ on November 30 with about 60 stalls, and Bochum’s €10 Weihnachtspass offering roughly 40 coupons.