Dates: December 5 – 6, 2026
Location: Hüttenweg 100, 14193 Berlin-Steglitz-Zehlendorf, Germany
The Märchenhafter Weihnachtsmarkt (Fairy-Tale Christmas Market) takes place in the romantic courtyard of Jagdschloss Grunewald, Berlin's oldest preserved castle (built 1542), in Zehlendorf, borough of Steglitz-Zehlendorf, set deep in the Grunewald forest on the southern shore of Grunewaldsee lake. Held over the second Advent weekend only, the market feels far removed from the city, with live fairy-tale characters including Mother Holle, Hansel and Gretel, Cinderella, and the Frog King mingling with visitors, a storyteller in a candlelit tent, a brass ensemble, and historically costumed night watchmen escorting guests through the forest after dark. Handmade crafts on offer include wooden and ceramic sculptures, jewelry, handbound books, toys, dolls, and woolen and felt textiles. Food and drink include mulled wine, Bratwurst, gingerbread, roasted almonds, tarte flambée, raclette, and hot waffles. Admission includes a guided tour of the castle. Buses 115, X10, and X83 stop at Königin-Luise-Straße/Clayallee, from which the market is about a 15-minute walk; public transport is strongly recommended as parking is limited.