Christmas Events for Kids in Cologne (2026)

Christmas Events for Kids
Written by Kelsey Cecil

18 min read · Auf Deutsch lesen

Rally the corgi has sniffed out the best Christmas events for kids in Cologne for 2026, and here is what he found: 31 family events across Cologne and 2 nearby towns, 12 of them free. The magic runs from November 13 (Hafen-Weihnachtsmarkt Köln) through January 31, with Nikolausdorf Köln (from November 16), Nikolausmarkt Pulheim-Brauweiler (from December 5) and China Lights im Kölner Zoo (from December 11) along the way. Every listing links straight to the host. This page is part of our guide to Christmas events for kids in Germany.

What Rally found in Cologne

  • 31 Christmas events for kids in Cologne and 2 nearby towns, including Pulheim and Brühl
  • 12 free events, including Nikolausdorf Köln (Saint Nicholas Village Cologne), Waldweihnacht (Forest Christmas) and Nikolausmarkt Pulheim-Brauweiler (Saint Nicholas Market)
  • Meet Santa: 5 chances, including Hafen-Weihnachtsmarkt Köln (Harbor Christmas Market Cologne), from November 13 and Winterzauber Eigelstein (Eigelstein Winter Magic), from December 2
  • Also on the list: 16 Christmas shows, 4 Christmas light displays, 11 Christmas markets and 6 story times
  • Season: November 13 (Hafen-Weihnachtsmarkt Köln) to January 31 (China Lights im Kölner Zoo)

Below is every event we could confirm, grouped by town, with the date, time, cost and the small things parents ask about (registration, ages, what is included).

Free 12Ticketed and paid 19

Free Christmas events for kids in Cologne

Visit with SantaFree

Nikolausdorf Köln (Saint Nicholas Village Cologne)

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The Nikolausdorf (Saint Nicholas Village) stands in 2026 from Nov 16 to Dec 23 at the Rudolfplatz. On Totensonntag (the Sunday of the Dead, a day of remembrance), Nov 22, the market is closed. For kids there is the heated Saint Nicholas house, where helpers assist with crafting, painting and cutting out. The activities change daily and are free. In the village chapel, kids and teens show nativity scenes (Krippen) they built themselves.

Every day between 4:30 and 5:30 pm, Saint Nicholas walks through the lanes and hands out small gifts to the children. The stage program begins at 6 pm, and on Dec 6 there is a special Saint Nicholas Day program. Admission is free.

Parent tip: Plan your visit for late afternoon, then you will meet Saint Nicholas on his stroll between 4:30 and 5:30 pm.

Host
Nikolausdorf Köln (opens in a new tab)
Where
Rudolfplatz am Hahnentor, Rudolfplatz, 50674 Köln, 50674 Cologne (opens in maps)
Confirmed
On the host’s page, checked
Check dates and details with Nikolausdorf Köln (opens in a new tab)

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Rally’s Christmas research

Rally the corgi has 30 more Cologne events researched for you.

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Coming up on this page

  • 16 Shows
  • 11 Markets
  • 7 Crafts
  • 6 Story time
  • 12 Free

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Christmas showFree

Kinderprogramm mit Theater SternKundt (Kids' Program with Theater SternKundt)

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The Christmas market in the Stadtgarten sits under old tree canopies between the Belgian Quarter and Ehrenfeld. From Nov 13 to Dec 23, more than sixty exhibitors, changing weekly, show selected crafts and handmade goods here.

For kids, Theater SternKundt plays Kasper puppet theater (the classic hand puppet show) Tuesday to Friday at 4:30 and 5:30 pm, with free admission. The plays change daily: besides Kasper und der Drache (Kasper and the Dragon) or Kasper und die Eiskönigin (Kasper and the Ice Queen), December also brings Christmas stories such as Kasper und die Weihnachtsüberraschung, Kasper und der Schneekönig (Kasper and the Snow King) and Kasper und der Geist der Weihnacht. The market opens at 4 pm on weekdays and at 12 pm on weekends. The venue is the Christmas market in the Stadtgarten, Venloer Straße 40, 50672 Cologne. Before you head out, it's worth a quick look at the organizer's website in case times change.

Parent tip: The Christmas plays run mostly in December, for example the Weihnachtsüberraschung on Dec 1, 4 and 10. The market only opens at 4 pm on weekdays. Expect the plays to be in German.

Host
Weihnachtsmarkt im Stadtgarten (opens in a new tab)
Where
Weihnachtsmarkt im Stadtgarten, Venloer Straße 40, 50672 Cologne (opens in maps)
Confirmed
On the host’s page, checked
Check dates and details with Weihnachtsmarkt im Stadtgarten (opens in a new tab)

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Christmas story timeFree

Wir zünden eine Kerze an (We Light a Candle)

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The children's library of Cologne's interim central library on the Hohe Straße accompanies kids through the pre-Christmas season with four Advent candles and four Christmas Thursdays. Each week a new story is read aloud to get everyone in the mood for the quiet season.

Afterward, changing Christmas activities with creativity and play are waiting. Kids can take part on one or on all of the Thursdays. The dates are Nov 26 and Dec 3, 10 and 17, each from 4:30 to 5:30 pm on the first floor. Participation is free, and registration through the city library's booking system is required. That way a small Advent ritual builds up week by week for preschool kids. The venue is the interim central library, Hohe Straße 68-82, 50667 Cologne. Before you head out, it's worth a quick look at the organizer's website in case times change.

Parent tip: Each date has to be booked separately through the booking system. The event takes place on the 1st floor. Expect the stories to be read in German.

Host
Stadtbibliothek Köln (opens in a new tab)
Where
Interim Zentralbibliothek, Hohe Straße 68-82, 50667 Cologne (opens in maps)
Registration
Required
Confirmed
On the host’s page, checked
Check dates and details with Stadtbibliothek Köln (opens in a new tab)

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Christmas story timeFree

Waldweihnacht (Forest Christmas)

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At Gut Leidenhausen in Cologne's Eil district, the scent of winter air mixes with fresh baking and mulled wine. The City of Cologne calendar lists Saturday and Sunday, Nov 28 and 29, 2026, each from 12 to 7:30 pm. Participation is free and no registration is needed.

Kids can bake cookies, craft and get their faces painted, and the little ones listen to exciting stories. Important for getting there: the estate has no parking of its own, and visitors are asked to use the parking at Hirschgraben or at Grengeler Mauspfad. City access permits are suspended that weekend. The address is Gut Leidenhausen 1a, 51147 Cologne.

Parent tip: Park at Hirschgraben, as there is no parking at the estate itself. City access permits are suspended that weekend. Expect the stories to be in German.

Host
Umweltbildungszentrum Gut Leidenhausen (opens in a new tab)
Where
Gut Leidenhausen, Gut Leidenhausen 1a, 51147 Cologne (opens in maps)
Confirmed
On the host’s page, checked
Check dates and details with Umweltbildungszentrum Gut Leidenhausen (opens in a new tab)

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Christmas story timeFree

Adventsabenteuer (Advent Adventure)

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Outside it is getting cold, the lights are glowing and Christmas is getting closer: the Cologne city library invites kids ages 8 to 12 to a pen-and-paper (tabletop role-playing) afternoon. Together they explore a fantastic world, meet other adventurers and decide for themselves who they want to be and how the story goes on.

No prior experience is needed, what counts is imagination, team spirit and a love of storytelling. The event on Friday, Dec 4, 2026, from 3:30 to 5:30 pm is free, and registration through the library's booking system is required. The venue is the interim central library, Hohe Straße 68-82, 50667 Cologne.

Parent tip: Register your child ahead through the booking system. Expect the session to be in German.

Host
Stadtbibliothek Köln (opens in a new tab)
Where
Interim Zentralbibliothek, Hohe Straße 68-82, 50667 Cologne (opens in maps)
Registration
Required
Confirmed
On the host’s page, checked
Check dates and details with Stadtbibliothek Köln (opens in a new tab)

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Carol concertFree

Nikolauskonzert der Regionalschule Weiden (Saint Nicholas Concert of the Weiden Regional School)

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The beginner groups and an instrumental ensemble of the Rheinische Musikschule in Weiden present a Saint Nicholas concert (Nikolauskonzert) on Tuesday, Dec 8, 2026, at 5 pm. It is for young and old and takes place in the auditorium (Aula) of the Georg-Büchner-Gymnasium.

Admission is free. Because the musicians are still young themselves, the concert is a nice chance for kids to experience Advent music up close. Light rail line 1 stops at the Weiden center. The school is at Ostlandstraße 39, 50858 Cologne.

Parent tip: No registration needed. Come a bit early, as the auditorium has limited seating.

Host
Rheinische Musikschule Köln, Regionalschule Weiden (opens in a new tab)
Where
Georg-Büchner-Gymnasium (Aula), Ostlandstraße 39, 50858 Cologne (opens in maps)
Confirmed
On the host’s page, checked
Check dates and details with Rheinische Musikschule Köln, Regionalschule Weiden (opens in a new tab)

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Christmas craftsFree

Kreativ-Tag: Geschenkpapier selbst gestalten (Creative Day: Make Your Own Wrapping Paper)

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For the Creative Day at the Porz district library, kids ages 6 and up make their own wrapping paper. With their own stamps and lots of imagination, they create a one-of-a-kind paper that makes the wrapped gifts the star of the Christmas show.

The date is Thursday, Dec 10, 2026, from 4 to 6 pm. Participation is free, and registration through the booking system is required. The library asks everyone to wear clothes that can get dirty. The library is at Alfred-Moritz-Platz 1, 51143 Cologne.

Parent tip: Dress your child in clothes that can handle paint. Expect the workshop to be in German.

Host
Stadtbibliothek Köln (opens in a new tab)
Where
Stadtteilbibliothek Porz, Alfred-Moritz-Platz 1, 51143 Cologne (opens in maps)
Registration
Required
Confirmed
On the host’s page, checked
Check dates and details with Stadtbibliothek Köln (opens in a new tab)

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Christmas story timeFree

Jolaboka

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Jolaboka is the Icelandic tradition of giving books at Christmas. The Chorweiler district library celebrates it with stories and chocolate. The Kamishibai storytelling theater (a Japanese-style picture card theater) opens for the story of Leni, who lives with her mom in a house full of books and discovers a story gnome (Geschichten-Wichtel) there.

There is also a letter scavenger hunt, a festive craft activity and a gnome book flea market (Wichtelbuch-Flohmarkt). The library offers a pre-Christmas afternoon with coffee and pastries. Participation on Friday, Dec 11, 2026, from 4 to 5:30 pm is free, and registration is not required. The library is at Pariser Platz 1, 50765 Cologne.

Parent tip: No registration, just drop by. You can take books from the flea market with you on the spot. Expect the story to be told in German.

Host
Stadtbibliothek Köln (opens in a new tab)
Where
Stadtteilbibliothek Chorweiler, Pariser Platz 1, 50765 Cologne (opens in maps)
Confirmed
On the host’s page, checked
Check dates and details with Stadtbibliothek Köln (opens in a new tab)

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Christmas story timeFree

Lotta kann fast alles (Lotta Can Do Almost Anything)

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In the series “Sonntags in der Bibliothek” (Sundays at the Library), the central library presents a staged picture reading of the story by Astrid Lindgren. Lotta can do everything, or at least almost everything, she thinks. When there is not a single Christmas tree left in the whole city and her family is already bracing for a sad holiday, she gets to work.

The event on Sunday, Dec 13, 2026, from 3 to 4 pm is meant for kids ages 4 and up and is free. No registration is needed, and seats are limited and given out in order of arrival. The venue is the interim central library, Hohe Straße 68-82, 50667 Cologne.

Parent tip: Seats are limited, so come in good time. Expect the reading to be in German.

Host
Stadtbibliothek Köln (opens in a new tab)
Where
Interim Zentralbibliothek, Hohe Straße 68-82, 50667 Cologne (opens in maps)
Confirmed
On the host’s page, checked
Check dates and details with Stadtbibliothek Köln (opens in a new tab)

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Family Christmas eventFree

Let's Quiz! Weihnachtsedition (Christmas Edition)

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How well do you and your child know Christmas? The Chorweiler district library asks kids ages 7 and up, for example, where Santa lives, which animals pull his sleigh and why we put up a Christmas tree.

In the Christmas edition of Let's Quiz, exciting facts, tricky questions and riddles await. The date is Wednesday, Dec 16, 2026, from 4 to 5:15 pm. Participation is free, and registration is by email at chorweiler@stbib-koeln.de or by phone at 0221 221-96401. The library is at Pariser Platz 1, 50765 Cologne.

Parent tip: Please register ahead by email or phone. Expect the quiz to be in German.

Host
Stadtbibliothek Köln (opens in a new tab)
Where
Stadtteilbibliothek Chorweiler, Pariser Platz 1, 50765 Cologne (opens in maps)
Registration
Required
Confirmed
On the host’s page, checked
Check dates and details with Stadtbibliothek Köln (opens in a new tab)

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Visit with SantaFree

Weihnachten war gestern (Christmas Was Yesterday)

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What actually happens when Christmas is over? In the interactive play Weihnachten war gestern (Christmas Was Yesterday) by the Gorilla-Theater, Santa and his two elves go on an imaginative journey between a look back at the year and a vision of the future. Together with the kids they discover what mattered in the past year and which wishes they take with them into the new year.

The focus is on creativity, sustainability and shared ideas, with lots of humor, improvisation and a homemade jet pack. The play runs on Sunday, Dec 27, 2026, from 3 to 4 pm in the interim central library, for kids ages five to ten. Admission is free and no registration is needed. The venue is the interim central library, Hohe Straße 68-82, 50667 Cologne. Before you head out, it's worth a quick look at the organizer's website in case times change.

Parent tip: Seats are limited and given out in order of arrival, so be there in good time. Expect the play to be in German.

Host
Stadtbibliothek Köln (opens in a new tab)
Where
Interim Zentralbibliothek, Hohe Straße 68-82, 50667 Cologne (opens in maps)
Confirmed
On the host’s page, checked
Check dates and details with Stadtbibliothek Köln (opens in a new tab)

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Christmas events for kids in Pulheim

Christmas marketFree

Nikolausmarkt Pulheim-Brauweiler (Saint Nicholas Market)

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The Nikolausmarkt (Saint Nicholas Market) in Pulheim-Brauweiler takes place in 2026 on the second Advent weekend, on Saturday, Dec 5, and Sunday, Dec 6, each day from 11 am to 10 pm. It is in the Abteipark (abbey park) and on Ehrenfriedstraße near the abbey church of St. Nikolaus. Admission is free.

On Saturday the kids' choir from Brauweiler performs, and on Sunday Saint Nicholas comes and gives the children little treats. There is also a nostalgic kids' carousel, craft stations and fairy tale hours (Märchenstunden). Depending on the weather, an ice skating rink is set up too.

Parent tip: Sunday, Dec 6, is Saint Nicholas Day, so plan your visit for that day. Expect the fairy tale hours to be in German.

Host
Nikolausmarkt Pulheim-Brauweiler (opens in a new tab)
Where
Abteipark und Ehrenfriedstraße, Ehrenfriedstraße, 50259 Pulheim (opens in maps) (near Köln)
Confirmed
On the host’s page, checked
Check dates and details with Nikolausmarkt Pulheim-Brauweiler (opens in a new tab)

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Ticketed and paid Christmas events for kids in Cologne

Admission, tickets or a fee apply. Where a host has not posted a price yet, the listing says so.

Event hosts: free events are listed first. The #1 spot puts your event at the top of this page.Inquire about the #1 spotAdd your event for free

Christmas market

Hafen-Weihnachtsmarkt Köln (Harbor Christmas Market Cologne)

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Right in front of Cologne's Chocolate Museum at the Rheinauhafen, the Hafen-Weihnachtsmarkt opens as one of the first markets in the city, from Nov 13, 2026 to Jan 3, 2027. Wide paths, short distances between the wooden stalls and kid-friendly attractions make it family friendly, and it is only a six-minute walk to the Heumarkt.

A classic kids' carousel turns on the grounds, and a small kids' train runs around the monument Der Tauzieher (The Tug-of-War Man). On Dec 6, Santa (der Weihnachtsmann) comes to the market in person, takes time for the children's wishes, hands out small treats and is available for souvenir photos. A visit to the Chocolate Museum combines well with this. The market is at Am Schokoladenmuseum 1a, 50678 Cologne. Before you head out, it's worth a quick look at the organizer's website in case times change.

Parent tip: Have the camera ready on Saint Nicholas Day, because Santa is available for souvenir photos. A detour into the warm Chocolate Museum is worth it in cold weather.

Host
Hafen-Weihnachtsmarkt Köln (opens in a new tab)
Where
Am Schokoladenmuseum, Am Schokoladenmuseum 1a, 50678 Cologne (opens in maps)
Confirmed
On the host’s page, checked
Check dates and details with Hafen-Weihnachtsmarkt Köln (opens in a new tab)

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Christmas market

Markt der Engel (Angel Market)

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The Markt der Engel stands in 2026 from Nov 16 to Dec 23 on the Neumarkt. On Totensonntag (the Sunday of the Dead, a day of remembrance), Nov 22, it is closed. It is open Sunday to Thursday from 11 am to 9 pm, and Friday and Saturday until 10 pm.

For kids, the city portal page lists appearances by fairy tale characters, giant figures from the Hänneschen-Theater, a curious elf, a big stag and stilt walkers. Every day there is face painting, magic shows and music. The angels in white robes walk through the lanes. The Neumarkt is easy to reach with several light rail lines.

Parent tip: Taking the light rail to the Neumarkt is easier than hunting for parking in the city center.

Host
Markt der Engel Köln (opens in a new tab)
Where
Neumarkt, Neumarkt, 50667 Köln, 50667 Cologne (opens in maps)
Confirmed
On the host’s page, checked
Check dates and details with Markt der Engel Köln (opens in a new tab)

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Christmas show

Kinderprogramm auf der Bühne (Kids' Program on Stage)

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The Christmas market at Cologne Cathedral, the Markt der Herzen (Market of Hearts) on the Roncalliplatz, has in 2026 a regular kids' program on its stage in addition to concerts. On Tuesdays the play Weihnachten in Gefahr (Christmas in Danger) usually runs, on Thursdays the children's theater Kasper und der Weihnachtsengel (Kasper and the Christmas Angel), and on Mondays there is Christmas face painting on stage.

All kids' dates start at 2:30 pm, from Nov 17 to Dec 22. The market itself is open from Nov 16 to Dec 23, Sunday to Wednesday from 11 am to 9 pm, Thursday and Friday until 10 pm and Saturday from 10 am. On Totensonntag (the Sunday of the Dead, a day of remembrance), Nov 22, it stays closed. More than 120 stalls offer crafts and treats right in front of the cathedral. The venue is the Roncalliplatz at Cologne Cathedral, 50667 Cologne. Before you head out, it's worth a quick look at the organizer's website in case times change.

Parent tip: Weekday afternoons are much quieter than the weekend. Kids' theater is on Thursdays and face painting on Mondays. Expect the plays to be in German.

Host
Weihnachtsmarkt am Kölner Dom "Markt der Herzen" (opens in a new tab)
Where
Roncalliplatz am Kölner Dom, 50667 Cologne (opens in maps)
Confirmed
On the host’s page, checked
Check dates and details with Weihnachtsmarkt am Kölner Dom "Markt der Herzen" (opens in a new tab)

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Christmas show

E Leech zom Chressfess

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The long-established Hänneschen-Theater in the old town, Cologne's puppet theater since 1802, presents the Christmas fairy tale E Leech zom Chressfess by Heike Huhmann. It is Christmas market time in Knollendorf: Hänneschen and Bärbelchen sell cookies, Tünnes runs a mulled wine stand, and Schäl has organized a big Christmas show for the day before Christmas Eve.

The main attraction is supposed to be Speimanes with his animal choir from the Knollendorf forest, but the star gets stage fright. It is performed with rod puppets, spoken and sung live, in Kölsch. Shows run from Nov 19, Wednesday to Sunday, mostly at 3 and 5:30 pm. According to the city portal, tickets cost €17.50. The venue is the Hänneschen-Theater, Eisenmarkt 2-4, 50667 Cologne. Before you head out, it's worth a quick look at the organizer's website in case times change.

Parent tip: It is performed in Kölsch, usually no problem for kids from Cologne. The box office is open Wednesday to Sunday from 3 to 6 pm and closed on Monday and Tuesday.

Host
Hänneschen-Theater, Puppenspiele der Stadt Köln (opens in a new tab)
Where
Hänneschen-Theater, Eisenmarkt 2-4, 50667 Cologne (opens in maps)
Registration
Required
Confirmed
On the host’s page, checked
Check dates and details with Hänneschen-Theater, Puppenspiele der Stadt Köln (opens in a new tab)

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Christmas market

Weihnachtsmarkt Köln-West (Christmas Market Cologne-West)

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The Christmas Market Cologne-West runs in 2026 from Nov 19 to Dec 23 at Quartier B at Venloer Straße 769 in Bickendorf. It is open Monday to Friday from 2 to 10:30 pm, and Saturday and Sunday from 12 to 10:30 pm.

For kids there is a kids' carousel at the market. The page lists no further kids' activities. It gives no information on admission.

Parent tip: On weekends the market opens already at 12 pm, so the visit fits nicely into the afternoon.

Host
Weihnachtsmarkt Köln-West (opens in a new tab)
Where
Quartier B, former 4711 site, Venloer Straße 769, 50827 Köln, 50827 Cologne (opens in maps)
Confirmed
On the host’s page, checked
Check dates and details with Weihnachtsmarkt Köln-West (opens in a new tab)

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Christmas market

Heinzels Wintermärchen: Weihnachtsmarkt auf Alter Markt und Heumarkt (Heinzel's Winter Fairy Tale: Christmas Market at Alter Markt and Heumarkt)

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Heinzels Wintermärchen runs in 2026 from Nov 23 to Jan 10, 2027 in Cologne's old town. The Alter Markt is open until Dec 23, the Heumarkt until early January. It is open daily from 11 am to 10 pm, and only on Dec 24 and 25 is everything closed. From Dec 31, the Heumarkt closes at 9 pm.

For kids there is a kids' carousel, a historic carousel and a small Ferris wheel. On the Heumarkt there is an ice landscape of around 1,800 square meters with Eisstock (ice stock) lanes and a bridge over the ice. At the Christmas post office there are Heinzelmännchen (Cologne's legendary helpful gnomes) stamps. According to the event portal, kids can shape hard candy and forge horseshoes at the Alter Markt.

Parent tip: For the ice rink, the portal recommends booking online, and skates cost extra.

Host
Heinzels Wintermärchen (opens in a new tab)
Where
Alter Markt und Heumarkt, Alter Markt, 50667 Köln, 50667 Cologne (opens in maps)
Confirmed
On the host’s page, checked
Check dates and details with Heinzels Wintermärchen (opens in a new tab)

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Christmas market

Kindertag auf der Eisbahn (Kids' Day at the Ice Rink)

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Heinzels Wintermärchen is the Christmas market built around Cologne's Heinzelmännchen (the legendary helpful gnomes) in the old town, with a market and an open-air ice rink on the Heumarkt. The ice rink is open from Nov 23, 2026 to Jan 10, 2027, and Dec 24 and 25 are rest days. The market at the Alter Markt runs until Dec 23.

Every Monday is kids' day: from 11 am to 10 pm kids skate at a reduced price and can take a small ice test with the funny ice police officer. Anyone who impresses going forward, backward and in pirouettes gets an ice master certificate. The rink is open daily from 11 am to 10 pm, until 9 pm from New Year's Eve. The venue is the Heumarkt, 50667 Cologne. Before you head out, it's worth a quick look at the organizer's website in case times change.

Parent tip: Come on a Monday to save money and take part in the ice test. For beginners there is also a skating school for kids at the rink.

Host
Heinzels Wintermärchen (opens in a new tab)
Where
Heumarkt (Heinzels Wintermärchen), 50667 Cologne (opens in maps)
Confirmed
On the host’s page, checked
Check dates and details with Heinzels Wintermärchen (opens in a new tab)

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Christmas show

Kölner Weihnachtscircus (Cologne Christmas Circus)

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The Kölner Weihnachtscircus performs in 2026 from Nov 27 to Jan 3, 2027 at the Zirkuszelt Schanzenviertel in Cologne-Mülheim. The usual shows are Wednesday to Friday at 3:30 and 7:30 pm, Saturday at 3 and 7 pm and Sunday at 1 and 5 pm. Times can vary, so check the schedule before your visit.

Tickets cost from €24.90, premium boxes up to €94.76. For groups of four, there is a Family and Friends package at a special price at the box office. The page does not list age recommendations or kids' prices.

Parent tip: The afternoon shows suit little guests best, and ask at the box office about the Family and Friends package.

Host
Kölner Weihnachtscircus (opens in a new tab)
Where
Zirkuszelt Schanzenviertel (Palastzelt), Peter-Huppertz-Straße 2, 51063 Köln, 51063 Cologne (opens in maps)
Confirmed
On the host’s page, checked
Check dates and details with Kölner Weihnachtscircus (opens in a new tab)

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Christmas show

Das kleine Zottel Mottel feiert Weihnachten (Little Zottel Mottel Celebrates Christmas)

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Little Zottel Mottel is invited to Christmas by the Rüsselbohnen and is thrilled. But what do you actually need for Christmas? In the story by Ruth zum Kley, Zottel Mottel excitedly discovers what Christmas can mean, naturally with its very own ideas, much to the amazement of the Rüsselbohnen.

The puppet play with live acting lasts 45 minutes and suits kids ages three and up. The kids sit very close to the action and are invited again and again to sing along. It plays at the KKT in Ehrenfeld from Nov 29 to Dec 23, and family dates include Nov 29 and Dec 12, 13 and 23. According to the city portal, tickets cost €11.50. The venue is the KKT. Kölner Künstler:innen Theater, Grüner Weg 5, 50825 Cologne. Before you head out, it's worth a quick look at the organizer's website in case times change.

Parent tip: For weekday morning shows, the theater asks for a reservation in advance. At 45 minutes it is ideal for the littlest ones. Expect the show to be in German.

Host
KKT. Kölner Künstler:innen Theater (opens in a new tab)
Where
KKT. Kölner Künstler:innen Theater, Grüner Weg 5, 50825 Cologne (opens in maps)
Registration
Recommended
Confirmed
On the host’s page, checked
Check dates and details with KKT. Kölner Künstler:innen Theater (opens in a new tab)

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Carol concert

Familienkonzert »Jauchzet, frohlocket!« mit Bachs Weihnachtsoratorium (Family Concert “Jauchzet, frohlocket!” with Bach's Christmas Oratorio)

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For the first Sunday of Advent, on Sunday, Nov 29, 2026, the Kölner Philharmonie presents a family concert with Bach's Christmas Oratorio. There are two performances, at 11 am and at 2 pm. The house opens an hour before.

The version lasts about an hour without an intermission. Two young ensembles and selected soloists perform with costumes and props, and Matthias Jahrmärker guides through the story as Joseph with light humor. The concert is recommended for ages 6 and up. Kids and teens under 17 pay €9, adults €18.

Parent tip: The house opens an hour before the start. Plan your arrival accordingly and get tickets in good time. Expect the narration to be in German.

Host
Kölner Philharmonie (opens in a new tab)
Where
Kölner Philharmonie, Bischofsgartenstraße 1, 50667 Köln, 50667 Cologne (opens in maps)
Registration
Required
Confirmed
On the host’s page, checked
Check dates and details with Kölner Philharmonie (opens in a new tab)

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Christmas show

Ein Weihnachtsmärchen (A Christmas Tale)

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For Mr. Scrooge, Christmas is nothing but humbug. His clerk wants time off, donations are being asked for everywhere, and suddenly everyone is cheerful, a dreadful idea for the miser. But on Christmas night he gets unexpected visitors, three kindly ghosts who take him on a special journey.

The KKT in Ehrenfeld tells the story freely after Charles Dickens, sensitively and with a pinch of cheerfulness, as live acting with puppet theater for kids ages five and up. The show lasts 65 minutes. Family dates are on Dec 19 and 20 as well as on Christmas Eve and on Dec 26 and 27, and please reserve the weekday morning dates in advance. The venue is the KKT. Kölner Künstler:innen Theater, Grüner Weg 5, 50825 Cologne. Before you head out, it's worth a quick look at the organizer's website in case times change.

Parent tip: The Christmas Eve show at 3 pm nicely shortens the wait until the gift giving. Please reserve morning dates in advance. Expect the show to be in German.

Host
KKT. Kölner Künstler:innen Theater (opens in a new tab)
Where
KKT. Kölner Künstler:innen Theater, Grüner Weg 5, 50825 Cologne (opens in maps)
Registration
Recommended
Confirmed
On the host’s page, checked
Check dates and details with KKT. Kölner Künstler:innen Theater (opens in a new tab)

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Visit with Santa

Winterzauber Eigelstein (Eigelstein Winter Magic)

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The Winterzauber Eigelstein takes place in 2026 from Wednesday, Dec 2, to Sunday, Dec 6, at the Eigelsteintorburg. It is open Wednesday to Friday from 3 to 10 pm, Saturday from 2 to 10 pm and Sunday from 2 to 9 pm.

For kids, Saint Nicholas (der Nikolaus) comes to the market every day at 4 pm. The organizer is the Bürgerverein Kölner Eigelstein (local residents' association). The page does not say whether admission is charged.

Parent tip: Come shortly before 4 pm so you don't miss Saint Nicholas.

Host
Bürgerverein Kölner Eigelstein e.V. (opens in a new tab)
Where
Eigelsteintorburg, Eigelstein, 50668 Köln, 50668 Cologne (opens in maps)
Confirmed
On the host’s page, checked
Check dates and details with Bürgerverein Kölner Eigelstein e.V. (opens in a new tab)

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Christmas show

Planschemalöörs Kinderweihnachtsplansch (Planschemalöör's Kids' Christmas Splash)

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On Dec 4, Planschemalöör, the Cologne dialect band, invite kids to their Christmas Plansch again, this time in the special atmosphere of the Kulturkirche Köln in Nippes. Together with the audience, the Planschis go on an atmospheric Christmas journey full of music, stories and shared moments.

The afternoon is meant for listening, joining in and marveling, for little and big fans. It begins on Friday, Dec 4, 2026, at 3 pm. According to the city portal, tickets cost €21.42. In the evening there is an additional concert for adults, and the afternoon show is the one meant for families. Planschemalöör sing in Kölsch (the Cologne dialect) and are well known to many Cologne families. The venue is the Kulturkirche Köln, Siebachstraße 85, 50733 Cologne. Before you head out, it's worth a quick look at the organizer's website in case times change.

Parent tip: Book the 3 pm afternoon show, because the evening concerts are aimed at adults. The Kulturkirche is in Nippes near the Neusser Straße. Expect the songs to be in Kölsch.

Host
Planschemalöör (opens in a new tab)
Where
Kulturkirche Köln, Siebachstraße 85, 50733 Cologne (opens in maps)
Registration
Required
Confirmed
On the host’s page, checked
Check dates and details with Planschemalöör (opens in a new tab)

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Christmas lights

China Lights im Kölner Zoo (China Lights at Cologne Zoo)

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In the Advent and winter season, China Lights returns to Cologne Zoo, this time under the motto Reise um die Welt (Journey Around the World). Across 20 hectares there are 64 light ensembles with over 1,000 individual figures, including replicas of the Eiffel Tower, Stonehenge, the Statue of Liberty, Sugarloaf Mountain, the Forbidden City, the Taj Mahal and the pyramids of Giza.

Around the structures, matching animal figures glow, from otters and wolves to toucans and jaguars to tigers, elephants and lions. The festival of lights runs from Dec 11, 2026 to Jan 31, 2027, daily from 5:30 to 9 pm, except on Christmas Eve and New Year's Eve. Advance sales are already open. The venue is Cologne Zoo, Riehler Straße 173, 50735 Cologne. Before you head out, it's worth a quick look at the organizer's website in case times change.

Parent tip: Buy tickets online in advance. The walk is long, so bring a stroller or a carrier for small kids.

Host
Kölner Zoo (opens in a new tab)
Where
Kölner Zoo, Riehler Straße 173, 50735 Cologne (opens in maps)
Registration
Recommended
Confirmed
On the host’s page, checked
Check dates and details with Kölner Zoo (opens in a new tab)

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Christmas show

Das Geheimnis der Weihnachtswichtel (The Secret of the Christmas Elves)

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On the third Sunday of Advent, Dec 13, 2026, the Kölner Philharmonie has two shows of Das Geheimnis der Weihnachtswichtel (The Secret of the Christmas Elves), at 11 am and at 2 pm. The ticket seller marks the event as kid-friendly.

Tickets cost from €25. The Philharmonie is right next to the cathedral, and the main train station is a few minutes away on foot. The address is Bischofsgartenstraße 1, 50667 Cologne.

Parent tip: The age recommendation and running time are listed on the Philharmonie's page, so check them before booking.

Host
Kölner Philharmonie (opens in a new tab)
Where
Kölner Philharmonie, Bischofsgartenstraße 1, 50667 Cologne (opens in maps)
Registration
Recommended
Confirmed
On the host’s page, checked
Check dates and details with Kölner Philharmonie (opens in a new tab)

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Christmas show

Die Weihnachtsgeschichte erzählt vom Engel und vom Esel (The Christmas Story Told by the Angel and the Donkey)

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Little cheeky donkey Fridolin almost trips over an angel. The angel wants to tell the children on earth the Christmas story but is, unfortunately, very forgetful. Luckily the little donkey knows Mary and Joseph personally, after all he carried the pregnant Mary to Bethlehem, even if he sees some things a little differently.

Together the two tell of the great miracle and sing cheerful Christmas songs with the audience. The musical Christmas play for kids ages three and up and the whole family lasts about 45 minutes including songs. It stars Jenny Winkler, Thandiwe Braun and Joachim Uerschels. The date is Sunday, Dec 13, 2026, at 11 am, and tickets cost €12. The venue is the Volksbühne am Rudolfplatz, Aachener Straße 5, 50674 Cologne. Before you head out, it's worth a quick look at the organizer's website in case times change.

Parent tip: At 45 minutes it suits preschoolers well. The Volksbühne is right on the Rudolfplatz with tram connections. Expect the play to be in German.

Host
Volksbühne am Rudolfplatz (opens in a new tab)
Where
Volksbühne am Rudolfplatz, Aachener Straße 5, 50674 Cologne (opens in maps)
Registration
Required
Confirmed
On the host’s page, checked
Check dates and details with Volksbühne am Rudolfplatz (opens in a new tab)

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Christmas show

Kokosnuss feiert Weihnachten: Familientag (Kokosnuss Celebrates Christmas: Family Day)

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In the middle of winter, the little dragon Kokosnuss and his friend Matilda get a visit from the penguins Greta and Pelle, who are looking for the South Pole. Together they travel to the northern forests to the Christmas village, and Kokosnuss decides that Christmas should be celebrated on Dragon Island too.

The Kammerpuppenspiele show the Christmas fairy tale at the Brunosaal in Klettenberg. Family Day is on Monday, Dec 14, 2026, at 4:30 pm, and the performance lasts about 90 minutes with an intermission. There are also shows from Dec 10 to 13. Tickets are from €16.88. The Brunosaal is at Klettenberggürtel 65, 50939 Cologne.

Parent tip: The times of the other shows are in the ticket calendar. Expect the show to be in German.

Host
Brunosaal Köln (opens in a new tab)
Where
Brunosaal, Klettenberggürtel 65, 50939 Cologne (opens in maps)
Registration
Recommended
Confirmed
On the host’s page, checked
Check dates and details with Brunosaal Köln (opens in a new tab)

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Christmas show

Wir warten aufs Christkind (Waiting for the Christkind)

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On Christmas Eve, Thursday, Dec 24, 2026, the Kölner Philharmonie invites everyone at 3 pm to the traditional family concert. Doors open at 2 pm, and no intermission is planned. The title refers to the Christkind, the Christ Child who brings gifts on Christmas Eve in many German homes.

The Kölner Domchor (Cologne Cathedral Choir) and the Mädchenchor am Kölner Dom (Cologne Cathedral Girls' Choir) sing, accompanied by a wind quintet of the Gürzenich-Orchester Köln. The program is well-known Christmas music in a calm, atmospheric selection. Alexander Niehues and Oliver Sperling conduct, and Christoph Biskupek hosts. The page gives no age recommendation, and the concert is meant for the whole family.

Parent tip: The page does not give an exact running time. Plan the afternoon with some buffer before the evening of Dec 24.

Host
Kölner Philharmonie (KölnMusik) (opens in a new tab)
Where
Kölner Philharmonie, Bischofsgartenstraße 1, 50667 Cologne (opens in maps)
Confirmed
On the host’s page, checked
Check dates and details with Kölner Philharmonie (KölnMusik) (opens in a new tab)

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Christmas events for kids in Brühl

Christmas lights

Phantasialand Wintertraum (Winter Dream) (Brühl)

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The Wintertraum at Phantasialand in Brühl runs in 2026 from Nov 14 to Jan 24, 2027. The park is open daily from 11 am to 8 pm, and until 6 pm on Dec 31. On Dec 24 and 25, on Jan 1 and on Jan 12 and 13 it is closed.

The event portal lists for families a light show across the whole park, ice shows and the new family attraction Die 3 Mausketiere (The 3 Mouseketeers). Tickets are available online from about €28, and at the box office they cost about €33 or more. Please check prices on the park's website beforehand.

Parent tip: Tickets booked online are cheaper than at the box office.

Host
Phantasialand (opens in a new tab)
Where
Phantasialand, Berggeiststraße 31-41, 50321 Brühl (opens in maps) (near Köln)
Confirmed
On the host’s page, checked
Check dates and details with Phantasialand (opens in a new tab)

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More Christmas events for kids in Germany

A story for the trip home

Our picture book follows Rally the corgi on his first train ride to see his grand-paw-rents. It is a cozy story to share on the way home after a big day out.

Rally Takes the Train book cover: a watercolour corgi peeking from a red train

A bedtime story after seeing SantaRally Takes the Train is a five-minute rhyming picture book about a corgi’s first train ride, hand-painted in real watercolor. Ages 0 to 8.

Buy on Amazon.de (opens in a new tab)

Christmas events for kids in Cologne: questions parents ask

What are the 2026 Christmas events for kids in Cologne?

For 2026, we confirmed 31 Christmas events for kids in Cologne, each on its host’s own page: Kinderprogramm auf der Bühne (Kids' Program on Stage), Kinderprogramm mit Theater SternKundt (Kids' Program with Theater SternKundt), Planschemalöörs Kinderweihnachtsplansch (Planschemalöör's Kids' Christmas Splash) and 28 more. Each one is listed above with times, cost and a link to the host.

Are there free Christmas events for kids in Cologne?

Yes, 12 of the 31 events here are free: Kinderprogramm mit Theater SternKundt (Kids' Program with Theater SternKundt), Weihnachten war gestern (Christmas Was Yesterday), Wir zünden eine Kerze an (We Light a Candle) and 9 more. Some free events still ask you to register, so check each listing.

Where can kids see Santa this year in Cologne?

Where to see Santa: Hafen-Weihnachtsmarkt Köln (Harbor Christmas Market Cologne), Weihnachten war gestern (Christmas Was Yesterday), Nikolausdorf Köln (Saint Nicholas Village Cologne) and 2 more. Check the listings above for times and booking.

Where are there Christmas story times for kids in Cologne?

Christmas story times on this page: Die Weihnachtsgeschichte erzählt vom Engel und vom Esel (The Christmas Story Told by the Angel and the Donkey), Wir zünden eine Kerze an (We Light a Candle), Jolaboka and 3 more. Library story times are usually free; ones with a meal or show are ticketed.

How do you confirm these events?

We list an event only after we find this season’s date on the host’s own website or an official city, library or tourism calendar. We last checked every listing on November 9, 2026. Hosts change details, so always confirm on the host’s page before you go.

Event names belong to their hosts. Rally Takes the Train is a family picture book and is not affiliated with, sponsored by or endorsed by any host listed here. Confirm dates, times and prices on each host’s own site before you go.

The story of Christmas in Cologne

At the Heinzelmännchen Fountain on the street Am Hof stands a stone tailor's wife who chased away Cologne's little helpers by scattering peas. Today those helpers give their name to the Christmas market in the old town, and the puppet theater has staged Christmas plays in Cologne dialect since 1802. A Cologne Christmas is full of stories that kids can see and touch.

How Cologne celebrates Christmas, and what is different for a visiting family

In Cologne, Christmas begins with puppets. In 1802, Johann Christoph Winters founded the Hänneschen Theater, and its first plays were nativity plays for small children in Advent. The theater still performs in Kölsch, the local dialect, and since 1938 it has stood on the Eisenmarkt in the old town.

The second typical Cologne Christmas figures are the Heinzelmännchen, little helpers from a local legend. The teacher Ernst Weyden wrote the story down in 1826, and in 1836 a poem by August Kopisch made it famous. The little helpers did the Cologne people's work at night until a curious tailor's wife scattered peas. For almost 20 years they have given their name to the Christmas market on the Alter Markt and the Heumarkt: Heinzels Wintermärchen (Heinzel's Winter Fairy Tale).

For a visiting family, the plays and many events are in German, and the Hänneschen theater is in Kölsch. But the markets, the ice rink and the story of the Heinzelmännchen need no language.

Local Christmas traditions a child will meet

Start with the markets. The Cathedral Christmas Market opened on November 17 in 2025 with about 150 stalls. A star-shaped tent and a tree about 25 meters tall lit the square together with more than 70,000 LEDs, and about 300 Herrnhut stars hung above. Cologne Tourism estimates more than 5 million visitors a year. On the stage by the cathedral there was puppet theater, face painting with angels and, on December 6, Nikolaus (St. Nicholas).

Heinzel's Winter Fairy Tale opened on November 24, 2025, and puppets from the Hänneschen theater walked over the Alter Markt on Mondays and Thursdays. On December 30 chimney sweeps painted black lucky noses on visitors' faces on the Heumarkt. Chimney sweeps are seen as lucky charms.

And each Advent churches, museums and other places show their nativity scenes on the Cologne Nativity Trail. In 2024 the Cologne City Museum showed a nativity in Kölsch, where Jesus is born in a flower stand on the Alter Markt, surrounded by the puppets Hänneschen and Bärbelchen.

Planning a Christmas visit to Cologne with kids

This page lists the confirmed events for the 2026 season, and many of them are free. The Hafen Christmas market at the Chocolate Museum opens first, on November 13, and Phantasialand's winter season starts on November 14. The Nikolausdorf at Rudolfplatz and the Market of Angels at Neumarkt open on November 16, and Heinzel's Winter Fairy Tale on November 23, with the Heumarkt rink open until January 10, 2027.

The mix is a good one for families: markets with carousels, puppet and children's theater, concerts, a Christmas circus, a zoo light trail, and free story hours and craft sessions in the city libraries. Nikolaus visits cluster around December 2 to 6.

Budget-wise, markets are free to enter and you pay for rides, food and skating. On Mondays the Heumarkt ice rink has a kids' day with cheaper skating from 11:00 to 22:00.

The tailor's wife at the fountain

The curious tailor's wife from the legend stands as a stone figure on top of the Heinzelmännchen Fountain on Am Hof, right in front of the Früh brewery restaurant. The fountain was donated in 1899 for the 100th birthday of August Kopisch, and was designed by the cathedral sculptor Edmund Renard and his son Heinrich. Little helpers can be seen at work below her, so it is a fun spot to find with kids.

Traditions today

  • Christmas market at Cologne Cathedral: About 150 stalls under a star tent right in front of the cathedral, with a children's program on the stage.
  • Heinzels Wintermärchen: The Heinzelmännchen Christmas market on the Alter Markt and Heumarkt, with more than 100 stalls in the old town.
  • Hänneschen Theater: Cologne's puppet theater has performed in Kölsch since 1802, and its first plays were nativity plays for small children.
  • Ice skating on the Heumarkt: A 1,800 square meter ice landscape in the middle of the old town, with a kids' day on Mondays.
  • Cologne Nativity Trail: In Advent, churches and museums in Cologne show their nativity scenes, and the City Museum even showed one in Kölsch.
  • Nikolaus on December 6: In 2025, Nikolaus visited the kids on the stage by the cathedral on December 6.

A fact for kids

In Cologne, little helpers called Heinzelmännchen are said to have done all the work at night. When a curious tailor's wife scattered peas and they slipped, they vanished for good.

Questions about Christmas in Cologne

Is Cologne worth visiting at Christmas with kids?

Yes. There are several markets, a Heinzelmännchen legend to hunt for, a children's stage program near the cathedral, puppet theater and an ice rink in the old town. The 2026 list has plenty of events, and many of them are free. Most sights are close together in the center.

When do the Christmas markets in Cologne open in 2026?

The Hafen market at the Chocolate Museum opens on November 13, the Nikolausdorf at Rudolfplatz and the Market of Angels at Neumarkt on November 16, and Köln-West on November 19. Heinzel's Winter Fairy Tale opens on November 23. The cathedral market's children's stage program starts on November 17.

Where can kids meet Nikolaus or Santa in Cologne?

The Hafen market has a Santa visit on December 6, and the Nikolausdorf at Rudolfplatz has a daily Nikolaus walk with small gifts. The Eigelstein winter market has Nikolaus daily at 16:00 from December 2 to 6, and the Nikolaus market in Brauweiler has Nikolaus gifts on December 5 and 6. In 2025 Nikolaus visited the cathedral stage on December 6.

Are there free Christmas events in Cologne?

Yes, many of the events are free. Examples are the Waldweihnacht at Gut Leidenhausen, the Kasper puppet shows at the Stadtgarten market, the Nikolausdorf at Rudolfplatz and story hours and crafts in the city libraries. Rides and skating cost extra.

Are Christmas events in Cologne in English?

Most events are in the local language, German, and the Hänneschen theater plays in Kölsch. Markets, ice skating and light trails need no language, but puppet shows, readings and workshops do. Check with the host if language matters.

Who are the Heinzelmännchen of Cologne?

They are little helpers from a Cologne legend. At night they secretly did the people's work while Cologne slept. The teacher Ernst Weyden wrote the legend down in 1826, and a poem by August Kopisch in 1836 made it known across Germany.

Why did the Heinzelmännchen disappear from Cologne?

Because of a curious tailor's wife. She wanted to see the helpers and scattered peas on the floor. The Heinzelmännchen slipped, got angry and never came back, and since then, says the legend, people in Cologne have to do their own work.

Where is the Heinzelmännchen Fountain in Cologne?

On the street Am Hof, right in front of the Früh brewery restaurant and a few steps from the cathedral. It was donated in 1899 by the Cölner Verschönerungsverein for the 100th birthday of August Kopisch. The stone figure on top is the curious tailor's wife, and below her the Heinzelmännchen are at work.

What is the Hänneschen Theater in Cologne?

It is Cologne's puppet theater, founded in 1802 by Johann Christoph Winters. Its first plays were nativity plays for small children in Advent. It performs in Kölsch, and since July 29, 1938 it has stood on the Eisenmarkt in the old town. In 2026 the Christmas play E Leech zom Chressfess runs from November 19 to December 20.

Who are Hänneschen and Bärbelchen?

They are the best-known puppets of the Hänneschen Theater. Other characters include Tünnes, Schäl, Speimanes, Schnäuzerkowski and Röschen, and they all live in the village of Knollendorf. The puppets speak Kölsch, even in the Christmas plays.

What is the children's program at the Cologne Cathedral Christmas market?

There is a stage by the cathedral with puppet theater and face painting, and the 2026 list shows programs on Monday, Tuesday and Thursday at 14:30 from November 17 to December 22. In 2025 there was also a participatory theater and a Nikolaus visit on December 6. The stage program is free to watch.

How many people visit the Cologne Cathedral Christmas market?

Cologne Tourism estimates more than 5 million visitors a year. In 2025 there were about 150 stalls, mostly crafts and gifts, and more than 100 free stage events, on weekdays from 14:30 and on weekends from 12:00.

How big is the Christmas tree at Cologne Cathedral?

In 2025 the tree was about 25 meters tall. Together with the star tent above the market it was lit by more than 70,000 LEDs over more than 1,000 square meters. You can see both from far away, because the market is right in front of the cathedral.

Where can kids ice skate in Cologne at Christmas?

On the Heumarkt in the old town, at Heinzel's Winter Fairy Tale. The 1,800 square meter ice landscape has paths, ice stock lanes and a bridge over the ice. On Mondays there is a kids' day from 11:00 to 22:00 with cheaper skating, and the rink is open until January 10, 2027.

Why do chimney sweeps paint lucky noses in Cologne?

Chimney sweeps are seen as lucky charms. At Heinzel's Winter Fairy Tale on December 30, 2025 they painted black lucky noses on visitors at the Heumarkt from 12:00. A little soot on the face is said to bring luck for the new year.

What is the Cologne Nativity Trail?

It is an Advent trail on which churches, museums and other places in the city show their nativity scenes. It took place for the 29th time in 2024. The Cologne City Museum showed a nativity at 1:15 scale in its lobby, with free entry.

What is the nativity in Kölsch at the City Museum?

It is called The Holy Night in Kölsch and moves the Christmas story to the historic Alter Markt. Jesus is born in a flower stand, surrounded by Cologne figures such as the puppets Hänneschen and Bärbelchen and the Cologne originals Maler Bock and Läsche Nas. The museum showed it at the 29th Nativity Trail.

Is Heinzel's Winter Fairy Tale really Cologne's oldest Christmas market?

That is what it says about itself: the oldest and biggest Christmas market in Cologne. It has existed for almost 20 years, covers about 10,000 square meters and has more than 100 stalls in lanes such as the Toy Lane and the Nibble Lane.

Which Cologne Christmas market is best for kids?

All three main ones have something. The cathedral market has the children's stage program, Heinzel's Winter Fairy Tale has the ice rink and the Hänneschen puppets, and the Hafen market at the Chocolate Museum has a kids' carousel and a Santa visit on December 6. With small kids, weekday afternoons are calmer.

Which Christmas plays for kids are on in Cologne in 2026?

Options include the Hänneschen Christmas play in Kölsch (17.50 euros), The Little Zottel Mottel Celebrates Christmas for ages 3 and up (11.50 euros), A Christmas Carol retold with puppets for ages 5 and up and a musical nativity play told by an angel and a donkey for ages 3 and up (12 euros). Check each theater for exact times.

Is there a light trail or Christmas circus in Cologne?

Yes. China Lights at Cologne Zoo is a light trail running from December 11 to January 31, open daily from 17:30 to 21:00, and the Cologne Christmas Circus in Mülheim runs from November 27 to January 3 with tickets from 24.90 euros. Phantasialand's Wintertraum also runs from November 14.

What is Jolaboka at the Chorweiler library?

It is a free event on December 11, 2026, from 16:00 to 17:30, that celebrates the Icelandic custom of giving books at Christmas. Kids get a picture-card story, a scavenger hunt, crafts and a book flea market.

Sources

  1. Weihnachtsmarkt am Kölner Dom 2025 (Kurztext Presse), Kölner Weihnachtsmarkt am Dom
  2. Die Highlights des Weihnachtsmarktes am Kölner Dom 2025, Kölner Weihnachtsmarkt am Dom
  3. Pressemitteilung Heinzels Wintermärchen 2025, Heinzels Wintermärchen
  4. Der Heinzelmännchenbrunnen, koeln.de
  5. Heinzelmännchen, Wikipedia
  6. Weihnachtsmarkt in der Kölner Altstadt, koeln.de
  7. Das Hänneschen-Theater, Stadt Köln
  8. Kölnisches Stadtmuseum beteiligt sich mit besonderer Krippe am 29. Krippenweg, Stadt Köln

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