Esslingen Medieval Market & Christmas Market

We’ve been waiting a long time for this—the return of jugglers, fire performers, stilt walkers, musicians, artisans, merchants, and innkeepers. Their vibrant activities will once again captivate visitors in 2026. And Esslingen’s breathtakingly beautiful Old Town provides the atmospheric backdrop, just as it always has. With its approximately 180 stalls and daily cultural program, the Esslingen Medieval Market & Christmas Market ranks among the largest and most beautiful in the region.

Special attractions at the Medieval Market include the warm bathing tub at the Harbor Market, medieval games, archery, the candle-making workshop, the smallest hand-cranked Ferris wheel, and much more. The air is filled with the enticing aroma of hot mulled wine, sweet mead, and berry juice. Visitors can also look forward to a wide selection of delicious foods, most of which are freshly prepared using regional ingredients.

The Christmas market also has plenty to offer to satisfy your appetite: in true tradition, you’ll find hearty bratwurst with sauerkraut or Kässpätzle. Those with a sweet tooth can look forward to crispy waffles, roasted almonds, and gingerbread. Stylishly decorated stalls featuring handicrafts, regional products, light-up houses, knitwear, and Christmas decorations offer the perfect gift for every budget. At the “Christmas Island” area around the Postmichelbrunnen fountain, children can look forward to the live nativity scene, and the youngest visitors can drop their letters to the Christ Child into the wish mailbox there.

On the weekends leading up to Christmas, over 30 artisans showcase their treasures at the Advent market on Ritterstraße.