What will the Advent markets be like in Katowice this year? Program and important information in one place

When the first snowflakes start to fall and the air turns crisp, Katowice transforms into a winter wonderland. The heart of this transformation is the Katowice Christmas Market, an annual tradition that brings a special kind of magic to the city.

Katowice is probably not the first city we associate with a festive atmosphere.

Katowice Advent Markets

Katowice, the capital of the Silesian Voivodeship and an important center of the entire region offers tourists many attractions, from classic and charming to industrial and innovative.

During the pre-Christmas period, the charm of the city is enhanced by the Katowice Christmas markets. The fair is famous for its impressive range of stalls with traditional Polish crafts, local delicacies, and unique gifts.

Christmas markets on the Market Square

When and where will it all take place?

Program of the Christmas market in Katowice

From November to December 2024, the market will be open from Monday to Thursday from 10:00 am to 8:00 pm, and on weekends (Friday, Saturday, and Sunday) from 10:00 am to 9:00 pm.

The food court will be open during this period from 10:00 to 22:00. Selected retail outlets will be open until midnight.

The market’s opening hours will be different on public holidays.

On December 24 (Christmas Eve), the market will be open from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m., on December 25, from 10:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m., and on December 26, from 10:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m.

On December 31, most stands will be open from 10:00 to 16:00, and selected stands will be open until 02:00 (January 1, 2025).

On  January 1, 2025,  you will be able to shop from 12:00 to 20:00.

While the full program is still being finalized, you can expect a delightful array of festive activities and entertainment throughout its duration:

• Opening Ceremony: The market traditionally kicks off with a grand opening, featuring live music, performances, and the ceremonial lighting of the Christmas tree.
• Live Music and Performances: Throughout the market’s run, enjoy carol singing, traditional Polish music, and other live entertainment that will keep you in the holiday spirit.
• Workshops and Demonstrations: Get hands-on with local artisans and learn traditional crafts like ornament making or gingerbread decorating.
• Special Events: Watch out for special events like St. Nicholas Day celebrations, offering unique experiences for the whole family.

Widely regarded as one of the best cities for Christmas markets in Poland, Katowice revels in the festivities every year, hosting spectacular markets with an ice rink, Ferris wheel, and a wide selection of vendors and fun attractions.

The Bożonarodzeniowy w Katowicach fair will offer dozens of stalls with a varied assortment, there will be a carousel for children, a fairy train, and colorful cabins with characters from the fairy forest.

You can choose handicrafts, Christmas decorations, ceramics, hand-painted decorations, decoupage products, Christmas cards, wreaths, bouquets, ecological bags, jewelry, wooden toys, and other items.

Here you will also find delicious and fragrant gingerbread, lollipops, natural bee honey, cheeses from Slovakia and the Netherlands, as well as liqueurs, meads, and wines from all over the world.

There is also a gastronomic zone on the square, where you can taste delicacies such as Hungarian, Spanish, Belgian fries, and Polish and Silesian specialties.

And what else to do?

In addition, several accompanying events are planned during the fair. Among them are concerts, St. Nicholas Day, theater performances, meetings with Santa, and caroling together. You can also see the nativity scene, fairy train, and fairyland.

Children at the Katowice Christmas markets also love a large number of moving exhibits with animatronic scenes, such as polar bears on skis, snoring Santas, or singing penguins.

Are you interested in what it looks like at the Christmas markets in Katowice? Take a look at the video:

Jarmark Bożonarodzeniowy w Katowicach 2023

What to Expect

The Katowice Christmas Market is a true feast for the senses:

• Festive Atmosphere: Stroll through the market square, adorned with twinkling lights and festive decorations, and soak in the warm and inviting ambiance.
• Unique Gifts: Discover handcrafted treasures, from intricately painted ornaments to cozy woolen scarves, perfect for finding one-of-a-kind presents for your loved ones.
• Culinary Delights: Indulge in traditional Polish cuisine, from hearty pierogi and kielbasa to sweet treats like gingerbread and chimney cakes. Warm up with a cup of grzaniec (mulled wine) or hot chocolate.
• Family-Friendly Fun: The market offers a variety of activities for children, including a carousel and visits from Santa Claus.

Beyond the Market

While the market is the main attraction, be sure to explore some of Katowice’s other gems:

• Spodek Arena: This iconic saucer-shaped building is a landmark of Katowice and hosts a variety of events throughout the year.
• Silesian Museum: Delve into the rich history and culture of the Silesia region at this fascinating museum.
• Nikiszowiec: Take a stroll through this charming district, known for its unique brick architecture and historical significance.

Conclusion

The Katowice Christmas Market 2024 promises a heartwarming and festive experience for visitors of all ages. Whether you’re seeking unique gifts, delicious food, or simply want to bask in the holiday spirit, this market has something for everyone. So, add Katowice to your Christmas travel list and discover the magic of this Silesian gem!