For 2026, we confirmed 14 Christmas events for kids in Zurich. The season opens on November 14 with Candle Dipping 2026 (Kerzenziehen 2026) and runs until February 7 with Die Zauberorgel (The Magic Organ). Of these, 6 are free. Every listing links straight to the host. This page is part of our guide to Christmas events for kids in Switzerland.
The short version
- Kids’ Christmas events confirmed for 2026 in Zurich, Winterthur, Bülach, Dielsdorf, Kloten and more: 14
- First: Candle Dipping 2026 (Kerzenziehen 2026), Kloten, November 14
- Free events: Samichlaus Arrival at the Bülach Christmas Market (Chlauseinzug am Weihnachtsmarkt Bülach), Samichlaus Arrival in Winterthur (Chlauseinzug Winterthur), Samichlaus Parade Zurich (Samichlaus-Umzug Zürich), Waldhüsli in the Käferberg Forest (Waldhüsli im Käferbergwald), Etzelchlaus Arrival in Rapperswil (Chlauseinzug Etzelchlaus in Rapperswil) and Dielsdorf Christmas Market (Weihnachtsmarkt Dielsdorf)
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).
At a glance: Christmas events for kids in Zurich
- Kids’ Christmas events
- 14 confirmed for 2026
- Towns
- Zurich, Winterthur, Bülach, Dielsdorf, Kloten and Rapperswil-Jona
- Season
- November 14 to February 7
- Free events
- 6
- Last checked
What are you looking for?
All 14 events
Nothing matches yet. Try another kind of event, or .
Rally’s Christmas research
Rally the corgi has 13 more Zurich events researched for you.
- New events every week We research new events daily and send you one email a week with the new ones we find in Zurich.
- Exclusive access to free events Be first to hear about new free events in Zurich.
- Start your magical Christmas season now Every event appears the moment you enter your email.
- Rally’s Christmas Eve Express and a free advent calendar Get early access to Rally the corgi’s Christmas Eve tracker, plus a free digital advent calendar to count down to Christmas.
- One-tap add to calendar Save any event to your Google, Apple or Outlook calendar so you never miss it.
Waiting inside
- 7 Santa
- 6 Crafts
- 4 Parades
- 3 Shows
- 6 Free
Enter your email and they’ll all appear instantly.
The Christmas magic awaits
Enter your email to get Christmas event alerts all season and unlock the details of 13 Christmas events in Zurich.
- New events in Zurich every week
- Exclusive access to free events
- Your magical Christmas season starts now
- Christmas Eve Express and free advent calendar
- One-tap add to calendar
Free Christmas events for kids in Zurich
Family Christmas eventFree
Samichlaus Parade Zurich (Samichlaus-Umzug Zürich)
- When: Sun, Nov 29, from 5 pm
- Where: Bahnhofstrasse (Werdmühleplatz to Bürkliplatz), 8001 Zurich (opens in maps)
- Cost: Free
- Ages: The whole family
Expand to see the parent tip
On Sunday, November 29, 2026, at 5 pm, the traditional Samichlaus parade starts at Werdmühleplatz. It runs along Bahnhofstrasse to Bürkliplatz. The Märlitram (fairy-tale tram) leads the way, followed by floats with Samichläuse (Swiss Saint Nicholases) and Schmutzlis (their dark-clad helpers), who hand out small treats to the kids at the side of the street. For many kids, it is the first time this year that they see the Samichlaus, and the festively lit Bahnhofstrasse sets the right mood.
At Bürkliplatz, the Samichlaus season is officially opened with brass band music. Families simply watch from the sidewalk, and no registration is needed. Because many people come, it is worth finding a spot along Bahnhofstrasse early. More information is available from the St. Nikolausgesellschaft at samichlaus-zuerich.ch. Along the route it is often crowded for strollers, so a baby carrier or a spot a little away from the big intersections is more comfortable. The easiest way to get there is by tram and bus.
Parent tip: Find a spot on Bahnhofstrasse early and dress warmly. At the end there is a small celebration with brass band music at Bürkliplatz.
New events in Zurich every week
Rally looks for new Christmas events in Zurich every day and adds them to this page. Enter your email for one weekly update with the latest finds.
Free. Unsubscribe at any time. Privacy policy (opens in a new tab)
Rally’s Christmas research
Rally the corgi has 13 more Zurich events researched for you.
- New events every week We research new events daily and send you one email a week with the new ones we find in Zurich.
- Exclusive access to free events Be first to hear about new free events in Zurich.
- Unlock the filters Find Santa visits, free events and weekend plans in one tap.
- Rally’s Christmas Eve Express and a free advent calendar Get early access to Rally the corgi’s Christmas Eve tracker, plus a free digital advent calendar to count down to Christmas.
- One-tap add to calendar Save any event to your Google, Apple or Outlook calendar so you never miss it.
Coming up on this page
- 7 Santa
- 6 Crafts
- 4 Parades
- 3 Shows
- 6 Free
Enter your email to get new Christmas events in Zurich every week.
Visit with SantaFree
Waldhüsli in the Käferberg Forest (Waldhüsli im Käferbergwald)
- When: Wed, Dec 2 to Mon, Dec 7, daily 10 am to 4 pm
- Where: Samichlaus-Waldhüsli (Samichlaus's little forest house) in the Käferbergwald, Zurich (opens in maps)
- Cost: Free admission
- Ages: Kids and families
Expand to see the parent tip
From Wednesday, December 2, to Monday, December 7, 2026, the Samichlaus and Schmutzli of the St. Nikolausgesellschaft der Stadt Zürich move into their little house in the Käferberg forest. From there they set off on their visits to children. The society has kept up the Samichlaus tradition since 1947 and also organizes the family visits at home.
If you like, you can visit the two daily between 10 am and 4 pm at the Waldhüsli, and admission is free. A walk through the woods to the Samichlaus is a nice experience for smaller children, and a learned Versli (little poem) makes the visit even more special. The exact location and more information are on samichlaus-zuerich.ch. A visit to the Waldhüsli is a nice alternative for families who have not booked a home visit. If you like, bring a drawing. For questions, the society's main office can be reached from October to December at 044 454 70 00.
Parent tip: Pack good shoes for the walk through the forest and practice a Versli. Check the website for the exact location of the Hüsli.
New events in Zurich every week
Rally looks for new Christmas events in Zurich every day and adds them to this page. Enter your email for one weekly update with the latest finds.
Free. Unsubscribe at any time. Privacy policy (opens in a new tab)
Christmas events for kids in Winterthur
Family Christmas eventFree
Samichlaus Arrival in Winterthur (Chlauseinzug Winterthur)
- When: Sun, Nov 29 (see program booklet for time)
- Where: Winterthur old town, from the Obertor to the Christmas market, 8400 Winterthur (opens in maps)
- Cost: Free
- Ages: The whole family
Expand to see the parent tip
The Chlauseinzug (the Samichlaus's arrival) is a fixed part of the Winterthur Christmas market. On Sunday, November 29, 2026, the Samichlaus and his entourage walk through the old town, from the Obertor to the Christmas market on the Neumarkt. For small children, it is a nice moment to see the Samichlaus up close. The arrival is organized by the Verein Weihnachtsmarkt Winterthur, which also runs the market.
The exact start time is not given online, it is in the program booklet at weihnachtinwinterthur.ch. Watching is free and needs no registration. Afterward, it is worth a detour to the market's Märliwald (fairy-tale forest), where there is face painting, storytellers and gingerbread decorating. The Christmas market itself is open on Sunday from 11 am to 7 pm. From Zurich you can reach Winterthur by train in about 20 minutes, and the old town is car-free.
Parent tip: Check the start time in the program booklet on weihnachtinwinterthur.ch and combine it with a visit to the Märliwald.
- Host
- Verein Weihnachtsmarkt Winterthur (opens in a new tab)
- Where
- Winterthur old town, from the Obertor to the Christmas market, 8400 Winterthur (opens in maps) (near Zürich)
- Confirmed
- On the host’s page, checked
New events in Zurich every week
Rally looks for new Christmas events in Zurich every day and adds them to this page. Enter your email for one weekly update with the latest finds.
Free. Unsubscribe at any time. Privacy policy (opens in a new tab)
Christmas events for kids in Bülach
Family Christmas eventFree
Samichlaus Arrival at the Bülach Christmas Market (Chlauseinzug am Weihnachtsmarkt Bülach)
- When: Sun, Nov 29, from 5 pm
- Where: Bülach old town (Bahnhofstrasse to Marktgasse/Untertor), 8180 Bülach (opens in maps)
- Cost: Free
- Ages: The whole family
Expand to see the parent tip
On Sunday, November 29, 2026, the Samichlaus moves into the little town of Bülach from 5 pm, opening the season in the Zürcher Unterland. The parade runs from Bahnhofstrasse to Marktgasse near the Untertor, right into the Christmas market. The organizing association was founded in 1971 and is politically and religiously neutral, and all members work as volunteers.
Taking part are the Chlaus groups of the St. Nikolaus-Gesellschaft, Einscheller (bell ringers), drummers, angel and gnome groups, and lanterns from the surrounding communities. Horse-drawn wagons and a gift wagon join in, and the gifts for the children are also supported by the city of Bülach. Watching is free. If you want to meet the Samichlaus in person: on December 5 and 6 he receives families after registration at the Rütihof. Bülach is about 20 minutes from Zurich by S-Bahn (regional train).
Parent tip: It is best to stand along the route toward the Untertor. Meeting him at the Rütihof on December 5 and 6 is by registration only.
- Host
- St. Nikolaus-Gesellschaft Bülach (opens in a new tab)
- Where
- Bülach old town (Bahnhofstrasse to Marktgasse/Untertor), 8180 Bülach (opens in maps) (near Zürich)
- Confirmed
- On the host’s page, checked
New events in Zurich every week
Rally looks for new Christmas events in Zurich every day and adds them to this page. Enter your email for one weekly update with the latest finds.
Free. Unsubscribe at any time. Privacy policy (opens in a new tab)
Christmas events for kids in Dielsdorf
Christmas marketFree
Dielsdorf Christmas Market (Weihnachtsmarkt Dielsdorf)
- When: Sat, Dec 12, 12 to 11 pm, and Sun, Dec 13, 11 am to 7 pm
- Where: Früebli-Areal (Früebli school building and Früeblistrasse), 8157 Dielsdorf (opens in maps)
- Cost: Free admission, some activities such as the kids' carousel and candle dipping cost a little
- Ages: The whole family
Expand to see the parent tip
On December 12 and 13, 2026, the Früebli-Areal in Dielsdorf becomes a Christmas market with about 90 stalls from local businesses, clubs and retailers. On Saturday the market is open from 12 to 11 pm, on Sunday from 11 am to 7 pm. The Samichlaus (Swiss Saint Nicholas) and Schmutzli (his helper) walk around the market grounds on both days from 2 to 4 pm, and at 2:30 pm the children's ballet of Dance & Body Art dances on the stage in the Früeblihalle.
For kids there is a kids' carousel all day, candle dipping in the school building's entrance hall, and face painting, modeling clay and painting in the Früeblihalle. At BLEU DU MONDE, families can paint ceramics, and in the circus wagon of the Reformed church there are crafts. On Saturday at 2 pm the children's choir of the Christmas play sings, and on Sunday at 2 pm the most beautiful Christmas ornaments are awarded prizes. Admission is free, some activities cost a little.
Parent tip: Come between 2 and 4 pm for the Samichlaus and Schmutzli. The digital site map on wemadi.ch shows where each stall and attraction is.
- Host
- Weihnachtsmarkt Dielsdorf (WeMaDi) (opens in a new tab)
- Where
- Früebli-Areal (Früebli school building and Früeblistrasse), 8157 Dielsdorf (opens in maps) (near Zürich)
- Confirmed
- On the host’s page, checked
New events in Zurich every week
Rally looks for new Christmas events in Zurich every day and adds them to this page. Enter your email for one weekly update with the latest finds.
Free. Unsubscribe at any time. Privacy policy (opens in a new tab)
Christmas events for kids in Rapperswil-Jona
Family Christmas eventFree
Etzelchlaus Arrival in Rapperswil (Chlauseinzug Etzelchlaus in Rapperswil) (Rapperswil-Jona)
- When: Fri, Dec 4, from 5:30 pm
- Where: Hauptplatz Rapperswil, 8640 Rapperswil-Jona (opens in maps)
- Cost: Free
- Ages: Suitable for kids
Expand to see the parent tip
Since 1935, the Chlauskommission in Rapperswil has kept up a special Samichlaus (Swiss Saint Nicholas) tradition. On Friday, December 4, 2026, at about 5:30 pm, the Himmelschlaus arrives on the Hauptplatz with about 30 Samichläuse and Schmutzlis (their dark-clad helpers), accompanied by donkeys. The event is expressly meant for children.
The kids may recite Versli and sing songs they have learned. Afterward, the Samichläuse and Schmutzlis hand out Biber (a spiced pastry), nuts (Nüssli) and mandarins. From December 4 to 6, the Chläuse are also out making visits. The Hauptplatz is a few minutes' walk from Rapperswil station, and by S-Bahn (regional train) it is quick to reach from Zurich. More information about the schedule is on etzelchlaus.ch. It gets cold by the lake in the evening, so pack warm clothes and gloves.
Parent tip: Come by S-Bahn and prepare a Versli or song.
- Host
- Etzelchlaus Rapperswil (opens in a new tab)
- Where
- Hauptplatz Rapperswil, 8640 Rapperswil-Jona (opens in maps) (near Zürich)
- Confirmed
- On the host’s page, checked
New events in Zurich every week
Rally looks for new Christmas events in Zurich every day and adds them to this page. Enter your email for one weekly update with the latest finds.
Free. Unsubscribe at any time. Privacy policy (opens in a new tab)
Ticketed and paid Christmas events for kids in Zurich
Admission, tickets or a fee apply. Where a host has not posted a price yet, the listing says so.
The #1 spot Event hosts: free events are listed first. One featured spot puts your event at the very top of this page.Ask about the #1 spot
Christmas crafts
Zurich Candle Dipping (Zürcher Kerzenziehen)
- When: Nov 14 to Dec 21
- Where: Zürcher Kerzenziehen am Hechtplatz, 8001 Zurich (opens in maps)
- Cost: You pay for the wax, ask the organizer for prices
- Ages: The whole family
Expand to see the parent tip
Zurich candle dipping (Kerzenziehen) is one of the city's oldest Advent traditions and has taken place since 1969. From November 14 to December 21, 2026, families can dip their own candles at Hechtplatz in the middle of the old town, a nice gift for a godmother (Gotti), godfather (Götti) or the grandparents. For many Zurich families, the visit is a fixed ritual before Christmas, and the homemade candles later end up on the Advent wreath or under the Christmas tree.
Zürich Tourismus lists only the place and dates. Opening hours, wax prices and group information are available directly from the organizer at zuercherkerzenziehen.ch or at 044 388 49 03. Candle dipping takes some patience, so it is worth planning plenty of time and wearing clothes that can take a little wax. If you come with younger children, it is best to plan a quiet weekday afternoon. Hechtplatz is right on the Limmat, just a few steps from Bellevue and from the Christmas market at Sechseläutenplatz, so the visit combines nicely with an Advent stroll.
Parent tip: Check opening hours on zuercherkerzenziehen.ch beforehand. Wear clothes that can handle a few wax splashes.
- Host
- Zürcher Kerzenziehen (opens in a new tab)
- Where
- Zürcher Kerzenziehen am Hechtplatz, 8001 Zurich (opens in maps)
- Confirmed
- On the host’s page, checked
New events in Zurich every week
Rally looks for new Christmas events in Zurich every day and adds them to this page. Enter your email for one weekly update with the latest finds.
Free. Unsubscribe at any time. Privacy policy (opens in a new tab)
Christmas show
Die Zauberorgel (The Magic Organ)
- When: Nov 14 to Feb 7, Wed, Sat and Sun, almost daily over the holidays
- Where: Theater am Hechtplatz at Haus Seefeld, Seefeldstrasse 91, 8008 Zurich (opens in maps)
- Cost: Prices available in advance sales
- Ages 4 and up
Expand to see the parent tip
For many Zurich families, the Zürcher Märchenbühne is part of the run-up to Christmas. This season it presents the children's musical “Die Zauberorgel” by Jörg Schneider with music by Emil Moser. The poor tinker Fridolin and his daughter Rägeli want to heal the seriously ill King Adalbert with their magic organ, but the wicked Bitterli couple want to steal the organ. Along the way, a scarecrow and a snowman help.
The show is performed in Swiss German, lasts 90 minutes including an intermission, and is recommended for ages 4 and up. Because the house at Hechtplatz is being renovated, everything takes place at Haus Seefeld at Seefeldstrasse 91. Strollers are not allowed in the hall, and food is not allowed. Performances run from mid-November to early February on Wednesdays, Saturdays and Sundays, and almost daily around Christmas and over the holidays. Tickets (Billette) are available at the box office at Haus Seefeld or through the ticket hotline at 044 415 15 15.
Parent tip: Note that the venue is Haus Seefeld, not Hechtplatz. Strollers cannot be brought in. Expect it to be in Swiss German.
- Host
- Zürcher Märchenbühne, Theater am Hechtplatz (opens in a new tab)
- Where
- Theater am Hechtplatz at Haus Seefeld, Seefeldstrasse 91, 8008 Zurich (opens in maps)
- Registration
- Recommended
- Confirmed
- On the host’s page, checked
New events in Zurich every week
Rally looks for new Christmas events in Zurich every day and adds them to this page. Enter your email for one weekly update with the latest finds.
Free. Unsubscribe at any time. Privacy policy (opens in a new tab)
Christmas crafts
Glaubten Candle Dipping (Kerzenziehen Glaubten)
- When: Sat, Nov 21 to Sun, Nov 29, daily (times vary by day)
- Where: Kirchliches Zentrum Glaubten (church community center), Riedenhaldenstrasse 1, 8046 Zurich (opens in maps)
- Cost: Admission and wicks free, wax CHF 4 to 5 per 100 g
- Ages: All ages
Expand to see the parent tip
At the Kirchliches Zentrum Glaubten in Zurich-Affoltern, candles are dipped every day from November 21 to 29, 2026. You can choose beeswax or colored wax in ten colors, and there is a crafts corner and a coffee (Kafi) for the adults. Candle dipping is open to everyone, and the event is deliberately kept simple and family-friendly.
Admission and wicks are free, you only pay for the wax: CHF 4 per 100 g of colored wax, CHF 5 per 100 g of beeswax. The team works on a volunteer basis, and the proceeds go to a charity. Opening hours change depending on the day of the week, usually from 4 pm on weekdays and from noon on weekends. Unfortunately, the rooms are not wheelchair accessible. The organizers are also always looking for helpers: anyone who helps for at least two hours gets half off their own candles. The team answers questions by email at info@kerzenziehen-glaubten.ch.
Parent tip: Times can change, so check kerzenziehen-glaubten.ch briefly. Wednesday is already open from 2 pm.
- Host
- Kerzenziehen Glaubten (opens in a new tab)
- Where
- Kirchliches Zentrum Glaubten (church community center), Riedenhaldenstrasse 1, 8046 Zurich (opens in maps)
- Confirmed
- On the host’s page, checked
New events in Zurich every week
Rally looks for new Christmas events in Zurich every day and adds them to this page. Enter your email for one weekly update with the latest finds.
Free. Unsubscribe at any time. Privacy policy (opens in a new tab)
Christmas story time
Christmas Program for Kids (Weihnachtsprogramm für Kinder)
- When: Wed, Dec 2, 2:30 to 4 pm, and Wed, Dec 9, 3 to 4 pm
- Where: Restaurant Pantanal, Zoo Zürich, Zürichbergstrasse 221, 8044 Zurich (opens in maps)
- Cost: Price on request, registration required
- Ages 5 to 12
Expand to see the parent tip
The Restaurant Pantanal at Zoo Zürich invites young zoo fans to two pre-Christmas afternoons in December. On Wednesday, December 2, 2026, kids bake Grittibänzen (bread men) from 2:30 to 4 pm and listen to a fairy-tale hour (Märlistunde). On Wednesday, December 9, gingerbread (Lebkuchen) is decorated from 3 to 4 pm. Both afternoons take place in the Restaurant Pantanal, a warm spot in the middle of the zoo.
The program is for kids ages 5 to 12 and is held in German. Professionals guide the kids but do not supervise them, so an accompanying adult stays at the zoo. Spots are limited, and each registration is for one child. The volunteer team answers questions at 044 254 28 80 or ftz@zoo.ch. Registration is online through the zoo's website. Before or after, a walk around to see the animals is worth it.
Parent tip: Register early, spots are scarce. Kids are guided but not supervised, so stay nearby. Expect it to be in German.
- Host
- Zoo Zürich (opens in a new tab)
- Where
- Restaurant Pantanal, Zoo Zürich, Zürichbergstrasse 221, 8044 Zurich (opens in maps)
- Registration
- Required
- Confirmed
- On the host’s page, checked
New events in Zurich every week
Rally looks for new Christmas events in Zurich every day and adds them to this page. Enter your email for one weekly update with the latest finds.
Free. Unsubscribe at any time. Privacy policy (opens in a new tab)
Saint Nicholas visit
Samichlaus Boat Cruise (Samichlaus-Schifffahrt)
- When: Sun, Dec 6, departures at 11:20 am or 1:20 pm (just under 2 hours)
- Where: Schiffstation Zürich Bürkliplatz (boat landing), 8001 Zurich (opens in maps)
- Cost: Kids from 6 CHF 4.70, adults CHF 9.40
- Ages: Prices for kids from age 6 and adults from age 16
Expand to see the parent tip
On Sunday, December 6, 2026, the Samichlaus and his Schmutzli are out on Lake Zurich. The boats leave Bürkliplatz at 11:20 am and 1:20 pm and are on the lake for just under two hours each. The MS Linth is planned, but the boat may change. The trip starts and ends at Bürkliplatz, so you do not need to plan a way back.
Kids who recite a Versli to the Samichlaus get a small surprise. A special ZSG ticket (Billett) applies: adults pay CHF 9.40, kids from age 6 pay CHF 4.70; the GA (general travel pass) and Halbtax (half-fare card) give no further discount. Tickets are sold at ZVV sales points, at machines and on board. Tables in the onboard restaurant can be reserved for free at 044 487 13 13, with a minimum order. On board there is, for example, a Nemo-Teller (Nemo plate), panini, soup and hot chocolate (heisse Schoggi).
Parent tip: Be at Bürkliplatz about 10 minutes before departure. Call ahead for a table in the onboard restaurant.
- Host
- Zürichsee-Schifffahrtsgesellschaft (ZSG) (opens in a new tab)
- Where
- Schiffstation Zürich Bürkliplatz (boat landing), 8001 Zurich (opens in maps)
- Confirmed
- On the host’s page, checked
New events in Zurich every week
Rally looks for new Christmas events in Zurich every day and adds them to this page. Enter your email for one weekly update with the latest finds.
Free. Unsubscribe at any time. Privacy policy (opens in a new tab)
Christmas show
De Chasperli rettet d'Wiehnacht (Chasperli Saves Christmas)
- When: Sun, Dec 13 and 27, 11 am; Thu, Dec 31, 2:30 pm; Jan 2 and 3
- Where: Millers, Seefeldstrasse 225, 8008 Zurich (opens in maps)
- Cost: CHF 25
- Ages 4 and up
Expand to see the parent tip
At Millers in Zurich's Seefeld, the Märlitheater Zürich puts on a Chasperli play for the holiday season. The wicked witch Giixigäx and the robber Schnappsack have kidnapped the Christkind (Christ Child, who brings the gifts) and hidden it in the forest along with the children's presents. Chasperli and his friend Friedli set out to free the Christkind, drive off the witch and catch the robber. The play is performed in Swiss German dialect (Mundart) and thrives on the kids cheering along.
The show lasts 45 to 50 minutes with no intermission and suits kids ages 4 and up. It is performed on December 13 and 27 at 11 am each, on New Year's Eve at 2:30 pm, and twice more in early January. A ticket (Billett) costs CHF 25, and tickets are available online from Millers. According to the announcement, the play is meant for everyone from 4 to 104 years old, so it is also a nice holiday outing for grandparents.
Parent tip: Buy tickets online in advance. The short running time suits kindergarten-age kids. Expect it to be in Swiss German dialect.
- Host
- Märlitheater Zürich im Millers (opens in a new tab)
- Where
- Millers, Seefeldstrasse 225, 8008 Zurich (opens in maps)
- Registration
- Recommended
- Confirmed
- On the host’s page, checked
New events in Zurich every week
Rally looks for new Christmas events in Zurich every day and adds them to this page. Enter your email for one weekly update with the latest finds.
Free. Unsubscribe at any time. Privacy policy (opens in a new tab)
Christmas events for kids in Winterthur
Christmas market
Winterthur Christmas Market with Märliwald (Weihnachtsmarkt Winterthur mit Märliwald)
- When: Nov 26 to Dec 23, daily from 11 am
- Where: Neumarkt, Winterthur old town, 8400 Winterthur (opens in maps)
- Cost: Market visit free, activities on site cost extra
- Ages: The whole family
Expand to see the parent tip
For the 29th time, the Winterthur Christmas market takes place on the Neumarkt in the car-free old town, from November 26 to December 23, 2026, on all seven days of the week. For kids there is “Dä zauberhafti Märliwald” (the enchanting fairy-tale forest) with face painting, storytellers and gingerbread decorating. The market is considered one of the most atmospheric in Switzerland and was named an Excellent European Christmas Market.
The supporting program changes daily, and besides the kids' activities there are various musical performances. It is open Monday to Thursday from 11 am to 8 pm, Friday and Saturday until 8:30 pm and Sunday until 7 pm; on the last day the market closes at 7 pm. The current daily program is in the events calendar on weihnachtinwinterthur.ch. The food and drink area stays open a little longer than the stalls. By train, Winterthur is about 20 minutes from Zurich, and the Neumarkt is only a few minutes' walk from the station.
Parent tip: Check the events calendar beforehand to see which day has storytellers or gingerbread decorating.
- Host
- Verein Weihnachtsmarkt Winterthur (opens in a new tab)
- Where
- Neumarkt, Winterthur old town, 8400 Winterthur (opens in maps) (near Zürich)
- Confirmed
- On the host’s page, checked
New events in Zurich every week
Rally looks for new Christmas events in Zurich every day and adds them to this page. Enter your email for one weekly update with the latest finds.
Free. Unsubscribe at any time. Privacy policy (opens in a new tab)
Christmas events for kids in Kloten
Christmas crafts
Candle Dipping 2026 (Kerzenziehen 2026) (Kloten)
- When: Nov 14 to Dec 2; kids' day every Wednesday, 2 to 6 pm
- Where: VFK premises (VFK-Räumlichkeiten), Schluefweg 10, 8302 Kloten (opens in maps)
- Cost: Paraffin CHF 3.50, beeswax CHF 5.10 per 100 g, minimum CHF 3 per candle
- Ages: Kids' day: first grade and up, also without adults
Expand to see the parent tip
The Vereinigung Freizeit Kloten opens its rooms on Schluefweg for public candle dipping from November 14 to December 2, 2026. On weekends it is open from 10 am to 6 pm, and on weekdays the hours vary. On Saturday, November 21, there is a long candle-dipping night from 6 to 10 pm with soup and mulled wine (Glühwein). Kloten is only a few minutes by S-Bahn (regional train) from Zurich.
Especially handy for kids is the kids' day on Wednesday from 2 to 6 pm: kids from first grade up may then come without an adult, and last entry is at 4:45 pm. No registration is needed. You pay by weight, cash is preferred, but cards and TWINT also work. A CHF 5 cash deposit is due for the candle hook. A candle costs at least CHF 3, with paraffin charged at CHF 3.50 and beeswax at CHF 5.10 per 100 g. The VFK can be reached at 044 804 85 55 or by email at info@vfk-kloten.ch.
Parent tip: Kids' day on Wednesday: last entry 4:45 pm. Bring CHF 5 in cash for the hook deposit.
- Host
- Vereinigung Freizeit Kloten (VFK) (opens in a new tab)
- Where
- VFK premises (VFK-Räumlichkeiten), Schluefweg 10, 8302 Kloten (opens in maps) (near Zürich)
- Confirmed
- On the host’s page, checked
New events in Zurich every week
Rally looks for new Christmas events in Zurich every day and adds them to this page. Enter your email for one weekly update with the latest finds.
Free. Unsubscribe at any time. Privacy policy (opens in a new tab)
More Christmas events for kids in Switzerland
- Christmas events for kids in Lucerne
- Christmas events for kids in Bern
- Christmas events for kids in Basel
- Christmas events for kids in St. Gallen
- Christmas events for kids in Lausanne
- Christmas events for kids in Geneva
- Christmas events for kids in Switzerland
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.
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 Zurich: questions parents ask
What are the 2026 Christmas events for kids in Zurich?
For 2026, we confirmed 14 Christmas events for kids in Zurich, each on its host’s own page: Zurich Candle Dipping (Zürcher Kerzenziehen), Samichlaus Parade Zurich (Samichlaus-Umzug Zürich), Die Zauberorgel (The Magic Organ) and 11 more. Each one is listed above with times, cost and a link to the host.
Are there free Christmas events for kids in Zurich?
Yes, 6 of the 14 events here are free: Samichlaus Parade Zurich (Samichlaus-Umzug Zürich), Dielsdorf Christmas Market (Weihnachtsmarkt Dielsdorf) (Dielsdorf), Waldhüsli in the Käferberg Forest (Waldhüsli im Käferbergwald) and 3 more. Some free events still ask you to register, so check each listing.
Where can kids see Santa this year in Zurich?
Where to see Santa: Samichlaus Parade Zurich (Samichlaus-Umzug Zürich), Dielsdorf Christmas Market (Weihnachtsmarkt Dielsdorf) (Dielsdorf), Waldhüsli in the Käferberg Forest (Waldhüsli im Käferbergwald) and 4 more. Check the listings above for times and booking.
Where are there Christmas story times for kids in Zurich?
Christmas story times on this page: Winterthur Christmas Market with Märliwald (Weihnachtsmarkt Winterthur mit Märliwald) (Winterthur) and Christmas Program for Kids (Weihnachtsprogramm für Kinder).
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 Zurich
In Zurich, Santa Claus himself sits at the wheel of the red Christmas tram, and on the last Sunday evening of November he walks down the Bahnhofstrasse with a crowd of helpers. For a visiting family, the Zurich Christmas season is less about one giant market and more about gentle local traditions: dipping your own candle, visiting Samichlaus in the woods and watching the city lights switch on.
How Zurich celebrates Christmas, and what is different for visitors
The star of a Zurich Christmas is Samichlaus, the Swiss name for Saint Nicholas. He comes with a helper called Schmutzli and a little donkey, and children around Zurich know him well. The city's St. Nicholas society was founded in 1947 by a Samichlaus named Karl Hotz and about a dozen colleagues who met at the Hotel Limmathaus. Today its 207 active members make more than 800 visits in 12 days, always in a team of three: Samichlaus, Schmutzli and the donkey that pulls the cart.
The society also organizes the Samichlaus parade and runs the forest hut in the Käferberg woods. Since 1969 it has been joined by the candle dipping at Hechtplatz, where children make their own beeswax candle layer by layer.
What makes Zurich different for a visiting family is that the season is built around local customs, not only markets. Children also love the glittering Bahnhofstrasse lights: 11,500 crystals that switched on on November 20 in 2025, the same evening the first snow fell.
The traditions a child will meet: Samichlaus, Schmutzli, tram rides and Tirggel
December 6 is Saint Nicholas Day, the memorial day of Saint Nicholas, a bishop who lived in the third century in what is now southern Turkey and who helped poor people. That is why Samichlaus brings small gifts. In Zurich picture books by Sämi Weber, Schmutzli fills his sack with Grittibänz, which are bread men, plus cookies and chocolate.
The Märlitram is a historic red tram with Samichlaus at the wheel and two angels telling Christmas stories. It has run in Advent since 1958, carries about 10,000 children every year and is meant for ages 4 to 9. At the end of the ride, each child gets a Tirggel, a pastry that belongs to Zurich Christmas, near Bellevue.
The Singing Christmas Tree, a lit tree-shaped scaffold full of children's choirs, has stood in Zurich since 1998. Since 2006 it has stood at Werdmühleplatz.
Planning a Christmas visit to Zurich with kids
The season starts in mid-November. Traditional candle dipping opens at Hechtplatz on November 14, 2026 and runs to December 21. The Samichlaus parade comes on Sunday, November 29, at 5 pm, free of charge, down the Bahnhofstrasse. The week of December 2 to 7 is the heart of Samichlaus season, with the free forest hut open daily and a Samichlaus boat trip on Lake Zurich on December 6.
There are many kinds of events: candle dipping in several places, puppet shows and children's musicals, Saint Nicholas processions in nearby towns such as Winterthur, Bülach and Rapperswil, and markets in Winterthur and Dielsdorf. Several are free, while others, like the puppet show at Millers and the boat trip, charge a small fee. Most children's theater is in Swiss German.
A few fun stories about the Bahnhofstrasse lights
The crystals above the Bahnhofstrasse use only about 3 kilowatt-hours per hour, roughly a hundred times less than the bulb canopy of the 1970s, and cost about 250 francs in electricity per season. Heinz Brandenberger, known as Mr. Lucy, has hung the lights since 1986. In 2025 a stretch of about 50 meters stayed dark for five minutes at the switch-on because a fuse had blown.
Traditions today
- Samichlaus parade on the Bahnhofstrasse: Held on the last Sunday evening in November, it goes from Werdmühleplatz to Bürkliplatz with Samichlaus figures and Schmutzli handing small gifts to children. In 2026 it is on November 29 at 5 pm.
- The Märlitram: A red historic tram with Samichlaus driving and two angels telling stories, for children aged 4 to 9. Each child gets a Tirggel pastry at the end.
- Candle dipping at Hechtplatz: Since 1969 families have dipped a wick into warm wax again and again to build their own beeswax candle. In 2026 it opens on November 14.
- Samichlaus at the forest hut: In early December, Samichlaus and Schmutzli stay in a small hut by the pond in the Käferberg woods. Entry is free and no registration is needed.
- Samichlaus visits at home: The St. Nicholas society visits families, kindergartens, schools and hospitals. The income goes to a fund for families in need.
- The Singing Christmas Tree: Children's and youth choirs sing from a glowing tree-shaped scaffold at Werdmühleplatz, a Zurich tradition since 1998.
A fact for kids
In the Zurich Christmas tram, Samichlaus drives the tram himself, and every child gets a Tirggel pastry as a goodbye.
Questions about Christmas in Zurich
Is Zurich worth visiting at Christmas with kids?
Yes, especially if your family likes gentle traditions rather than huge crowds. Kids can dip candles, ride the Samichlaus tram, visit Samichlaus in the forest and see the sparkly Bahnhofstrasse lights. Many of the main events are free.
When is the Santa Claus parade in Zurich in 2026?
On Sunday, November 29, 2026 at 5 pm. It starts at Werdmühleplatz, goes along the lit-up Bahnhofstrasse and ends at Bürkliplatz, where two brass bands play at a short ceremony. It is held every year on the last Sunday evening in November.
What is Samichlaus?
Samichlaus is the Swiss name for Saint Nicholas. The real Nicholas lived in the third century in what is now southern Turkey and became bishop of Myra. His memorial day is December 6, which is why Samichlaus brings small gifts to children.
Who is Schmutzli?
Schmutzli is Samichlaus's helper. He walks next to him on visits and in parades. In Zurich picture books, he fills his sack with Grittibänz, cookies and chocolate for the children.
Where can kids meet Santa in Zurich?
The free forest hut in the Käferberg woods is open daily from December 2 to 7, 2026, from 10 am to 4 pm, with Samichlaus and Schmutzli inside. On December 6 there is also a Samichlaus boat cruise on Lake Zurich from Bürkliplatz, with two sailings. Children who recite a rhyme get a small gift.
What is the Märlitram in Zurich?
It is a historic red VBZ tram that has run in Advent since 1958. Samichlaus drives, and two angels tell Christmas stories and sing with the children. It is meant for ages 4 to 9, takes about 20 minutes and tickets are sold online only. The tram is now called the St. Annahof Märlitram.
How do we ride the Märlitram?
The ride starts at Bellevue, goes along the Limmatquai and Central to Bahnhofstrasse and returns to Bellevue, where parents wait. Tickets can only be bought online. About 10,000 children ride every year.
What is a Tirggel?
A Tirggel is a pastry that belongs to Zurich Christmas. Children who ride the Märlitram get one at Bellevue as a goodbye gift.
Are there free Christmas events in Zurich?
Yes. The Samichlaus parade on the Bahnhofstrasse is free, and so is the forest hut. Winterthur's Santa procession, Bülach's lantern procession and Rapperswil's Etzelchlaus procession are free too. Entry to the Dielsdorf Christmas market is free, though some activities like the carousel cost a little.
Are Christmas events in Zurich in English?
Most events are in German or Swiss German. The Magic Organ children's musical, for example, is in Swiss German. Parades, lights and candle dipping do not need much language, but check with the host if you want English.
Where can children dip candles in Zurich?
The traditional candle dipping at Hechtplatz runs from November 14 to December 21, 2026. It has been part of Zurich Christmas since 1969, and you pay for the wax. Other places nearby include Glaubten in Zurich-Affoltern from November 21 to 29 and Kloten from November 14 to December 2, where Wednesday afternoons are for children from first grade.
How much does candle dipping cost?
At Hechtplatz you pay for the wax, and prices are set by the organizer. At Glaubten, entry and wicks are free, and wax costs CHF 4 to 5 per 100 grams. In Kloten paraffin is CHF 3.50 per 100 grams and beeswax CHF 5.10, with at least CHF 3 per candle.
What is the Samichlaus society?
It is the St. Nicholas society of the city of Zurich, founded in 1947. It is politically and religiously neutral, and its members work as volunteers. They visit families, kindergartens, schools and hospitals, and the income goes to a fund for families in need.
Is there a Christmas show for kids in Zurich?
Yes. The puppet show about Chasperli saving Christmas at Millers is for ages 4 and up and runs from December 13, 2026 to January 3, 2027 on selected days, for CHF 25. The Magic Organ is a children's musical at the Hechtplatz theater from November 14, 2026 to February 7, 2027, in Swiss German for ages 4 and up.
What Christmas activities does the Zurich zoo offer?
Two kids' afternoons are planned: on December 2, 2026 children bake Grittibänz bread and hear a fairy tale, and on December 9 they decorate gingerbread. Both take place at the Pantanal restaurant at Zoo Zurich, and registration is needed.
How are the Bahnhofstrasse Christmas lights made?
Since 2010 the street has been lit by 11,500 crystals over about a kilometer. They use roughly a hundred times less power than the old bulb canopy of the 1970s, and the electricity costs about 250 francs per season. The lights are paid for privately.
What is the Singing Christmas Tree?
It is a scaffold shaped like a tree, covered in lights, where children's and youth choirs sing. It first stood in 1998 on the Pestalozziwiese and moved to Werdmühleplatz in 2006, where a Christmas market was added. The Samichlaus parade has a concert there before it sets off.
What happened at the 2025 lights switch-on?
On November 20, 2025 at 6 pm the Bahnhofstrasse lights went on, and the first snow of the year fell that evening. A stretch of about 50 meters stayed dark at first because of a blown fuse, but after about five minutes everything shone. The lights stayed on until January 6, 2026.
Are there Christmas markets near Zurich?
The Christmas market in Winterthur runs from November 26 to December 23, 2026, with a fairy-tale forest that has storytellers, face painting and gingerbread decorating. Dielsdorf holds a market on December 12 and 13, 2026 with about 90 stalls. In Zurich itself, the market at Sechseläutenplatz is now called Bellevue Noël, and the one inside the main station is called Polarzauber.
Where can we see Santa processions outside Zurich city?
On Sunday, November 29, 2026 Winterthur has a procession through the old town and Bülach has one with horse carts, lanterns, drummers and angels from 5 pm. In Rapperswil, about 30 Santa Clauses hand out gingerbread, nuts and mandarins on December 4 from 5:30 pm. All are free.
Can we combine several Christmas traditions in one Zurich trip?
Many families pair the parade with a Märlitram ride, a beeswax candle at Hechtplatz and a visit to Samichlaus at the forest hut. The parade is on November 29 and the hut is open from December 2 to 7, so a trip in early December works well.
Sources
- Samichlausumzug, St. Nikolausgesellschaft der Stadt Zürich
- Gesellschaft, St. Nikolausgesellschaft der Stadt Zürich
- Waldhüsli: Wo Samichlaus und Schmutzli wohnen, Waldhüsli
- Zürcher Kerzenziehen, Zürich Tourismus
- 66 Jahre Zürcher Märlitram: eine Tonreise ins Radioarchiv, SRF Regionaljournal Zürich Schaffhausen
- St. Annahof Märlitram in Zürich, ZVV
- Das Zürcher Märlitram ist gerettet, und soll künftig auch im Frühling fahren, NZZ
- Samichlaus Umzug & Konzert Singing Christmas Tree 2025, StadtJugendMusik Zürich
- History since 1998, The Singing Christmas Tree
- Pünktlich zum ersten Schneefall: Lucy bringt Zürich zum Funkeln, 20 Minuten
- The Lucy Christmas Lights In Bahnhofstrasse Zurich, New in Zurich
- Christmas Markets Zurich, Swiss ASAP