Magical Maastricht Christmas Market 2024 in The Netherlands

Many​ stalls with all things Christmasy and numerous entertainment options, such as a Ferris wheel and ice skating—everything makes Maastricht market your Christmas holiday destination in Holland. The cozy streets are inviting, and the warm cafes radiate a kind atmosphere. What could be better?

Maastricht Christmas Market Highlights

Maastricht Christmas Market is one of the top Christmas markets in the Netherlands and is annually held at Vrijthof Square from the end of November till the New Year. You can snack on bratwurst and glühwein and find all your Christmas presents at its numerous stalls and then continue shopping at the beautiful Jekerkwartier area.

The illuminated Ferris wheel will provide you with a stunning panorama of festive Vrijthof. Additionally, don't miss a chance to have a ride on the traditional carousel. The market features a beautiful outdoor ice rink that looks especially romantic at night. Listen to some Christmas-themed music as you glide through the rink or watch the skaters sipping a warm beverage at the cafe near the rink.

Try some reibekuchen or poffertjes, fresh ‘oliebollen,’ and traditional waffles. Or add Schrobbelèr liqueur to your coffee for a true Maastricht Christmas Market experience. After spending some time outside, you can warm up in the idyllic alpine-inspired chalet or check out the beautiful Saint Servatius Basilica nearby to get into the Christmas spirit and experience its peace and tranquility.

Magical Lights

Magical Light routes aspire to be extra special. Maastricht has provided wider space for everyone, so you can take more time to discover the city and its holiday decorations at your own pace. From late November to the last week of December, the holiday lights routes will take festive walkers to the most impressive spots in the city. Landmarks will be adorned with Christmas lights, and all you have to do is follow the illuminations.

Maastricht Christmas Market Location

Magical Maastricht Christmas Market takes place on Vrijthof Square, located near the city center.

Christmas season in the Netherlands

The Christmas season in the Netherlands is a time full of joy and unique traditions worth exploring. It all starts with a Sint Maarten at the beginning of November. Kids take paper lamps, walk along the streets, and knock on doors, singing for candy. They chant, “11 November is de dag, Dat mijn lichtje, Dat mijn lichtje branden mag,” which translates to “November 11 is the day that my light may shine bright."

On Pakjesavond (Evening of Presents), celebrated on December 5, families come together to exchange and open gifts, while enjoying spiced cookies and hot chocolate. A playful tradition involves sharing Sinterklaas poems that gently tease family members. After December 5, Christmas trees and decorations start going up, though it's considered impolite by some to begin Christmas preparations before December 6.

The festivities continue on the first Saturday after November 11, when Saint Nicholas (Sinterklaas) arrives in the Netherlands by steamboat, bringing gifts, particularly mandarins.

On Christmas Eve, Dutch families don't prepare complicated dishes like turkey or cakes; they use grilled meat, veggies, cheese, and sauces for their Christmas dinner.