Christmas 2026
Christmas in Ilvesheim
The markets, the lights and the parties — and when each is worth it.
1 day to go16 Nov – 26 Dec · 8 ideas
- 3 for families
- 4 free
Don't miss
Weihnachtsmarkt bei den Gartenfreunden
Das Winterdorf Ilvesheim
Weihnachten nicht alleine sein
Sunday 22 November
Gigis Adventsmarkt
Local advent artisan market at Gigis Tonkreativ pottery workshop featuring handmade pottery gift items, regional artisan crafts, Glühwein, and children's warm punch.
FamilyFreeSource: Gigis Tonkreativ
Saturday 28 November
Weihnachtsmarkt bei den Gartenfreunden
Community Christmas market organised by MGV Germania 1862 Ilvesheim e.V. featuring local craft stalls, festive choir singing, seasonal treats, and hot mulled wine.
FamilyFree
Wednesday 2 December
kfd-Adventsfeier
Annual pre-Christmas advent gathering held by the Catholic Women's Community (kfd St. Peter Ilvesheim) with festive music and reflection.
Thursday 24 December
Heiligabend (Christmas Eve) Early Retail Shutdown
Christmas Eve is not a statutory public holiday, but by strict German retail law and tradition shops, grocery stores, and bakeries shut their doors by 13:00 or 14:00. Families gather privately in the evening for Bescherung (present exchange).
Weihnachten nicht alleine sein
Traditional communal Christmas Eve gathering for seniors and individuals spending the holiday alone. Begins with a short devotion at 17:30, followed by a shared holiday dinner, Christmas carols, and pastries. Participation is free; prior phone registration with the foundation is required.
Friday 25 December
Weihnachtsfeiertage — Statutory Public Holidays
The 1. and 2. Weihnachtsfeiertag (Christmas Day and St. Stephen's Day) are strict nationwide public holidays in Baden-Württemberg. All supermarkets, standard retail shops, municipal offices, and banks remain closed.
All season
Das Winterdorf Ilvesheim
Family-friendly Christmas village and winter market open Thursday through Sunday with artisan stalls, bratwurst, Glühwein, and festive lights. Hours run Thursday 17:00–21:00, Friday 17:00–23:00, Saturday 16:00–23:00, and Sunday 15:00–21:00 (closed on 24 and 25 December).
FamilyFreeSource: Regioactive
Christmas Market Mug Deposit (Glühweintassen-Pfand)
When purchasing Glühwein or warm drinks at Das Winterdorf or seasonal stands, you pay a refundable mug deposit (typically 2.50€–4.00€). You can return the ceramic collector's mug for cash back or keep it as a festive souvenir.
Times and prices change, so check with the organiser before you go. Updated 12 Nov