This year again, during the Advent season, Prince Charles-Louis de Merode is opening the gates of his castle for the Romantic Christmas Market. This market, with its traditional hand-crafted items, won first place as the finest Christmas market of NRW in 2011. Surrounded by picturesque scenery and a natural park, the visitors will be welcomed to an idyllic village composed of lovely, decorated wooden Christmas stalls. A giant Christmas tree will be standing in the castle courtyard. Thousands of candles, torches, and lanterns will be illuminating the castle grounds.

Many craftsmen, including wood workers, blacksmiths, candle makers, glass blowers, basket weavers, potters, , crib makers, and spoon carvers, will be producing, exhibiting  and offering for sale their creations.

All over the property bonfires will radiate warmth, creating a cozy atmosphere. "Feuerzangenbowle", a traditional hot drink and regional specialty, will be brewed in large caldrons. The delicious aroma of hot wine and the fragrance of local foods and sweets will be wafting through the winter air. Visitors can also warm up in the castle’s café and enjoy a cup of coffee or a cacao punch with a piece of “Christollen”, a Christmas cake or other baked goodies.

The visitors will have the opportunity to see the Christmas Angel appearing in a tower window, reciting lovely Christmas poems. The Christmas story, from the Scriptures, can also be viewed through lighted pictures. In addition the visitors will see charming Punch and Judy shows. A children's carousel will provide great entertainment to our youngest visitors. They will also have the opportunity to pet animals in the living nativity scene.

Every Advent weekend will highlight a special feature.  The first weekend will be dedicated to the official opening of the Christmas Market and a blessing from the local priest. The second weekend will see the visit of St. Nicholas who will give presents to the children. The third weekend, the Long Night of Lights, will honor Saint Lucia. On the 4th weekend of Advent there will be a very special surprise for the visitors. A wonderful join-in nativity play will get adults and children in the right mood for the Holy Night.

Please find all information about our Romantic christmas market at www.weihnachtsmarkt-merode.de (please click the link).