Christmas 2026
Christmas in Sankt Martin
The markets, the lights and the parties — and when each is worth it.
1 day to go16 Nov – 26 Dec · 10 ideas
- 4 for families
- 4 free
Don't miss
Weihnachtsmarkt St. Martin
Ceremonial opening of Sankt Martin Christmas market
Früchteteppich: Herbergssuche von Maria und Josef
Thursday 19 November
Mademer Überraschungsmenü
Cooperative winter dining experience organized by Mademer Gastro across Sankt Martin. Guests rotate through three local restaurants for three mystery courses with paired local estate wines, accompanied by brief guided interludes and a sparkling wine finale.
Saturday 28 November
Ceremonial opening of Sankt Martin Christmas market
Official festive opening ceremony led by local mayor Timo Glaser and the Sankt Martin Wine Princess to launch the Advent season.
FamilyFreeSource: Pfalz.de
Friday 18 December
Christmas by Christmann
Seasonal winery Christmas market hosted at Landhaus Christmann featuring regional artisans, wine and spirit tastings, hot punch, Winzerglühwein, barbecue specialties, and an appearance by Sankt Nikolaus.
FamilyFreeSource: Weingut & Brennerei Christmann
Thursday 24 December
Heiligabend (Christmas Eve) early closures
Christmas Eve is treated locally as a half-day; retail outlets, bakeries, and winery tasting rooms shut by 13:00 or 14:00. Evening dining is strictly limited to pre-booked festive hotel menus.
Friday 25 December
Weihnachtsfeiertage public holidays
Both December 25 (Erster Weihnachtsfeiertag) and December 26 (Zweiter Weihnachtsfeiertag / St. Stephen's Day) are nationwide legal public holidays. All retail stores and standard administrative services are closed under German Ladenschlussgesetz.
All season
Früchteteppich: Herbergssuche von Maria und Josef
Intricate sacred floor mosaic crafted by local volunteers over 350 hours using over a million grains, seeds, and dried berries. The 2026 display depicts Mary and Joseph seeking shelter on the road to Bethlehem. Open daily 10:00 to 17:00; voluntary donations support charitable causes.
FamilyFreeSource: Wochenblatt-Reporter
Kuß der Sterne Sparkling Wine Tasting
Friday afternoon guided tasting in the historic sandstone vaulted cellar of Weingut Winfried Seeber. Includes sampling five estate sparkling wines, savory nibbles, and cellar explanations. Limited to 10 participants; advance registration required.
Winzerglühwein mug deposit (Pfand)
Christmas market drink stalls across the Palatinate wine route serve local vintner mulled wine (Winzerglühwein) in collectible ceramic mugs. A cash deposit (Pfand, typically 2.50 € to 3.50 €) is charged at purchase and refunded upon returning the mug.
Weihnachtsmarkt St. Martin
Traditional village Christmas market taking place across the first three Advent weekends around the historic Alte Kellerei and Kulturscheune. Features artisan crafts, local Winzerglühwein, waffles, tarte flambée, children's bakery workshops, and Sunday musical performances.
FamilyFreeSource: Tourist-Info St. Martin
Winter Glühwein-Tour
Guided winter hike through the forest slopes and dormant vineyards of Sankt Martin, stopping for warming spirits and concluding with estate hot mulled wine paired with hearty Palatinate snacks. Advance booking required.
Times and prices change, so check with the organiser before you go. Updated 11 Nov