Gone forever: Initial German Christmas markets called off

The festive season is usually a time of joy and celebration, but for many Christmas market enthusiasts, the upcoming years may be filled with uncertainty.

In Switzerland, the Christmas market in Aarau is likely to be cancelled due to the impending bankruptcy proceedings of its operator, "Stadtchend AG". Exhibitors who have already paid for the cancelled event will receive their money back, but the city's plans for alternatives are currently unknown.

Across the border in Germany, the world-famous Christmas market at Cologne Cathedral faces a potential shutdown in 2026 due to a dispute over the operator's tender. The Cologne Christmas Society GmbH, initially considered the winner of the tender, had the process suddenly halted by the city. Competitors are complaining about rule violations in the safety concept of the proposed market, leading to lawyers, court dates, and the potential cancellation of the event.

The dispute in Cologne has left many Christmas market fans worried about the upcoming seasons. However, there is no available information indicating that any German city has a significant probability of its Christmas market being completely closed in 2026 due to a dispute over the organizer tender.

For those who don't want to miss the festivities, there is some good news. Ostrach, a town in Baden-Württemberg, which cancelled its Christmas market in June, is now hosting it again. And for those who are willing to travel, the Christmas market in Ostrach for 2025 promises to be a small consolation.

The uncertainty surrounding Christmas markets is not just limited to Aarau and Cologne. The Advent season in the coming years may be filled with potential cancellations and disputes, casting a shadow over the traditional celebrations.

As the world navigates through these challenges, one thing remains certain - the enduring spirit of Christmas and the joy it brings to millions of people around the world.