When festive lighting covers the town center, the smell of potato pancakes, suckling pig and mulled wine fills the air and soft music sounds through the alleyways, the most beautiful time of the year begins in Kevelaer. From November 28 to December 21, 2025, the "Kevelaerer Krippenmarkt" will once again open its doors every day, inviting guests and locals alike to enjoy the special Advent atmosphere on the Lower Rhine. For many years, the market has been one of the highlights of the pre-Christmas period and has established itself as an atmospheric meeting place where tradition, community and contemplation can be experienced. Once again this year, Volksbank an der Niers is contributing to the special atmosphere and attractive design of the market experience with its support.
The cozy market on the Lower Rhine
On Luxemburger Platz and Kapellenplatz, cozy wooden huts with handmade gift ideas, decorations and artisan products are lined up next to each other. The lovingly designed stalls, complemented by a varied culinary offering, create an ambience that invites you to discover, linger and enjoy. A special eye-catcher is the ten-metre-high wooden pyramid, which shines with warm light and is also a convivial place to enjoy a winter drink. An illuminated 3D angel, which was purchased last year with the support of Sparkasse Rhein-Maas, also provides a festive photo point for atmospheric souvenir photos.
Experience at the Forum Pax Christi
A central highlight awaits visitors to the Forum Pax Christi: the life-size nativity scene with donkeys, sheep and calves delights young and old year after year. On Wednesdays, Saturdays and Sundays, the traditional nativity play brings the Christmas story to life. The production is by Karl Timmermann, who, together with dedicated participants, has been creating a touching performance with great passion and expressiveness for over three decades. The nativity play with actors from Lebenshilfe takes place on Wednesdays. The Forum Pax Christi is also home to numerous exhibitors whose diverse offerings further enrich the atmospheric experience and invite visitors to browse. From decorations and clothing to nativity scenes - a festive selection for all visitors.
Program on the market
Musical performances by various groups, contemplative reading sessions, small rides for children and the creative Christmas workshop create a varied and family-friendly program for guests of all ages. In addition to handicrafts and painting activities, the popular "Letters to the Christ Child" are once again waiting to be written and posted in the Christmas workshop this year. There will also be puzzle fun for young and old - with a reward.
Culinary delights and cozy encounters
The "Kevelaerer Krippenmarkt" also has a lot to offer in culinary terms. Numerous stalls around the market tempt visitors with savory and sweet specialties, making the visit an enjoyable experience. Traditional classics such as suckling pig, potato pancakes and sausages are on offer as well as warming soups, wintry hot drinks and homemade treats. The lovingly designed food huts invite you to linger - whether for a convivial mulled wine in an atmospheric setting or a little break with a hot chocolate. This makes the market a place where you can enjoy, arrive and relax together.
Tourist Information at the "Nativity Scene Market"
The tourist information center is located directly on the market square. Here, visitors can obtain information about the pilgrimage town, cultural offers and planned events. In addition, atmospheric souvenirs of Kevelaer and the KevelaerCard, a practical city voucher that makes an excellent gift, especially during the Advent season, are on offer.
Experience Kevelaer during Advent
"The 'Kevelaerer Krippenmarkt' is a place of arrival and encounter for many people. Here, tradition, craftsmanship and warmth combine to create a very special Advent experience," says Daniela Cox, Business Development Manager and Head of Kevelaer Marketing. "We look forward to working with our partners, exhibitors and guests to once again create a time full of warmth, joy and shared moments."
With its unique atmosphere, loving details and varied program, the "Kevelaerer Krippenmarkt" once again invites you to enjoy the anticipation of Christmas, pause for a moment and collect special memories.
Opening hours
November 28 to December 21, 2025
Monday to Thursday 1 - 7 pm
Friday 1 - 8 pm
Saturday 11 a.m. - 8 p.m.
Sunday 11 a.m. - 7 p.m.
The restaurants are open one hour longer.
Admission is free.