Christmas Market in Gdańsk — the magic of Christmas by the Motława River

The Gdańsk Christmas Market is a winter gem of the Tricity area, attracting hundreds of thousands of people every year who are eager for the festive atmosphere, warm lights, and local handicrafts. Stretching across Targ Węglowy and surrounding streets, the market transforms the center of Gdańsk into a magical land – full of wooden stalls, illuminations, delicious aromas, and concerts. In 2025, the market will take place from November 21 – December 23, and its program promises to be as rich as in previous years.

• The Christmas Market in Gdańsk in 2025 starts on November 21 and lasts until December 23.
• Main location: Targ Węglowy, areas around Tkacka Street, Bogusławski Street, the Armory of Art and Handicrafts, and the courtyard of Forum Gdańsk.
• Entry to the market area is free of charge.
• The opening hours of the stalls are usually: 12:00–20:00 (Sunday–Thursday) and 12:00–21:00 (Friday–Saturday).

History of the market — where does this festive atmosphere come from?

• The roots of the Christmas market in Gdańsk date back to the 17th century.

• The first historical descriptions come from the area around St. Mary's Basilica.

• In the 19th century, the markets moved to the Artus Court, becoming a meeting place for merchants, craftsmen, and enthusiasts of Christmas traditions.

• The contemporary form of the event — with stalls, illuminations, and a rich artistic program — has been operating for over 20 years.

• The market's characteristic mascots are Mr. and Mrs. Orzechowski – referencing the historical uniforms of soldiers from the Gdańsk garrisons.

Market in rankings — prestige and popularity

• In the Best Christmas Markets competition organized by the Europe’s Best Destinations portal, the Gdańsk market won first place in 2025.

• In 2024, Gdańsk received a record number of over 92,000 votes, which was a 35% increase compared to the previous edition.

• In previous years, the market was also highly rated – among others, it took second place in the 2023 competition.

Attendance — how many people does the market attract?

• In the 2022 edition, the market was visited by over 700,000 people.

• According to the Gdańsk City Hall’s announcement, in one of the recent years the number of visitors exceeded 1 million.

• The dynamic growth in popularity means the event attracts not only residents of the Tricity area but also tourists from across Europe.

Market attractions — what can you see and experience?

The Christmas Market in Gdańsk is more than just a gift stall. Here are the main attractions:

• Craft stalls: local handicrafts, Christmas decorations, regional products.

• World cuisines: one edition featured as many as 20 culinary kitchens from various parts of the world.

• Illuminations and light decorations: spectacular light gates, decorations in market zones create a magical atmosphere.

• Christmas Parade (“Fairytale Opening Parade”): colorful costumes, theatrical characters, and animations that officially open the market.

• Permanent thematic corners (“Fair Corners”): including Santa’s Corner, Moose Corner with a talking moose (Lucek), family corners.

• Carousels and attractions for children: including a Venetian carousel, AmberSky carousel, Santa’s sleigh simulator in VR technology, spinning barrels, etc.

• Workshops and artistic program: concerts, performances, family animations, Christmas songs, and theatrical scenes.

• Charity events: part of the proceeds is allocated to social causes, e.g., hospice support – including through the sale of special market mugs.

• Illustrated “Gift Chest” – a large decorative element inside which you can take souvenir photos.

Significance for Gdańsk and the region

• The market has become one of the most important winter events in Gdańsk – attracting residents as well as foreign tourists.

• It is also part of the city's tourism strategy – the number of flight connections increases during the market period.

• It combines tradition with modernity: linking Gdańsk’s historical roots (markets, old walls) with modern attractions, building a strong image of the city as a winter destination.

The Christmas Market in Gdańsk is a unique festive event that combines rich history, atmospheric decorations, local craftsmanship, and international flavors. Thanks to prestigious awards and growing attendance, it is becoming increasingly recognized not only in Poland but throughout Europe. It is an excellent opportunity to feel the magic of Christmas in the historic surroundings of Gdańsk and immerse yourself in the pre-Christmas atmosphere.