Christmas markets 2025: Fewer traders, more challenges!

Christmas markets 2025: Fewer traders, more challenges!

The festive season is just around the corner and there is great anticipation for the Christmas markets in the Ostprignitz-Ruppin region. Still, there is some uncertainty in the air. As the Märkische Allgemeine reports, the current challenges relate less to the cancellation of larger markets, but rather to a decline in providers and rising costs.

The President of the German Showmen's Association (DSB), Albert Ritter, explains that there are no cancellations across the board. Smaller markets have only been avoided in special cases, which is reassuring for the community. The Ostprignitz-Ruppin district has not officially canceled any Christmas markets so far, and the larger Advent events are taking place as planned.

Rising costs and fewer providers

A look behind the scenes shows that the situation is by no means easy for organizers and retailers. Axel Leben from Inkom points out increased costs and new security requirements. For example, concrete barriers were used for the first time at the Martinimarkt. This is not only an additional financial burden, but also requires a certain amount of effort when organizing the markets.

Another crucial factor is the decreasing number of dealers. Axel Leben attributes this decline to a generational change in mobile commerce. Newer dealers are finding it difficult to find a foothold while older dealers are retiring. This is particularly evident in Wittstock. Jean Dibbert from the city administration reports that the number of vendors for the Christmas market has been reduced from 60 in 2024 to just 46 for 2025.

Festive planning in the cities

As challenges grow, cities seem to be finding creative ways to make the Advent season festive. The “Wittstock Christmas Season” will take place in Wittstock from December 3rd to 7th with various offers that will delight both big and small hearts. Neuruppin, not far from Wittstock, starts with the “Lights on!” event on November 27th. There is a diverse program with restaurateurs and retailers until November 30th.

In addition, visitors can look forward to numerous other Christmas markets in the region, which contribute to a pre-Christmas atmosphere. The Christmas market in Kyritz is scheduled for December 12th to 14th. Other markets in Rheinsberg (December 5th and 6th), Kagar (December 20th) and numerous smaller towns ensure that the spirit of Christmas can be felt everywhere.

Variety of offers

The smaller Christmas markets should not be underestimated. They offer a great opportunity to strengthen the local community and purchase unique products. In places like Berlitt, Zernitz, Hohenofen, Breddin and others there will be a variety of offers that are very tempting for both locals and visitors. These markets are not only places for trade, but also for encounters and togetherness.

Considering the challenges that are impacting the Christmas markets this year, it becomes clear that there is a lot of thought and passion behind every string of lights and every mulled wine stand. So, despite all the adversities, the Christmas season will once again be a reason for joy this year.