Christmas in Gdańsk

06.12.2024 - 26.12.2024

Slowly, slowly the holiday season is approaching that everyone is waiting for. The days are getting shorter, the trees have lost all their leaves, and it’s getting cooler and darker. In a moment, the scent of fir and gingerbread will spread around, and the festive atmosphere will envelop all of Gdańsk.

Christmas Market

On November 22, the Christmas market begins. It is one of the most beautiful markets in all of Europe. The heart of the market is the Coal Market. There, you will find stalls with traditional food, local crafts, and holiday decorations. But not only that! It’s on the Coal Market where you can meet Santa Claus, talk to Moose Luck, and have fun on the festive carousel. In the Great Armory, you will have a unique opportunity to buy works from students of the Gdańsk Academy of Fine Arts. In a few years, these works may be worth hundreds of thousands of zlotys ;) The market also offers many other attractions.The market will last until December 23, and entrance is free.

Oliwa Park and Holiday Illuminations

The holiday season is a perfect opportunity for walks. Best in Oliwa Park, which has been decorated with thousands of lights for this special time. As you walk through the alleys of Oliwa Park, visitors feel as if they have stepped into a holiday fairy tale. The trees, bridges, gazebos, and fountains are adorned with thousands of lights that create unforgettable patterns and shades. The lights reflecting in the park's ponds enhance the effect and immerse visitors in a unique, magical atmosphere. The main attraction is the illumination in front of the historic Abbot's Palace, where new, stunning installations appear every year. The palace facade is beautifully illuminated, and nearby you will often find a large, festively decorated Christmas tree.

Santa Claus Arrives in Gdańsk

As every year, on December 5, a special ceremony takes place in Gdańsk. A ship with a unique guest, Santa Claus, will dock at the Long River. It’s a moment awaited by many children. Santa Claus arrives in Gdańsk to participate in the lighting of the lights on the Gdańsk Christmas tree. This event is accompanied by various performances that put everyone present in a festive mood. The ceremony takes place at the Long Market.

The Great Elf Factory

Who produces the toys that Santa Claus brings to good children? Of course, it’s the elves! Now children have the opportunity to peek behind the scenes of the Elf Factory. It’s a unique place full of holiday magic. Children can expect more than two hours of role-playing fun, creative tasks, countless attractions, and a meeting with Santa Claus himself! The ticket includes entry for one child and one guardian.

The Streets of the Old Town

During the holiday season, the Gdańsk Old Town will shine with hundreds of lights. Along the streets, illuminations appear, and stylish decorations are hung on the tenements, catching the attention of tourists and residents. The whole creates a unique holiday atmosphere that makes walking around Gdańsk during this time a true pleasure.