Gemeentegrot in Valkenburg, Weihnachtsmarkt (Superbass, CC BY-SA 4.0 , via Wikimedia Commons)
Ranked 10th in 2023 as one of “Europe’s Best Christmas Destinations,” Christmas Town, Valkenburg is back and happening from Nov. 15, 2024 – Jan. 5, 2025. Valkenburg has multiple markets glimmering with holiday spirit, including unique and atmospheric ones held in caves where you are bound to experience moments of magic.
Above ground, there is a large market throughout the historic city, Santa’s Village where you can explore the Route d’Amuse (a culinary walking route), Christmas Crib Walks which feature dozens of Nativity scenes, various musical and theatrical performances, and a newly added Sparkle Trail featuring enchanting light sculptures. Santa and his helper, Professor Dr. Falckenstein (who sports a fun purple hat) will be in attendance collecting wishes.
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Nativity Scene, Valkenburg (Gimo61, CC BY 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons)
Twice a week, every Wednesday at 7:00 p.m. and Saturday at 7:30 p.m. the Landal Christmas Parade passes through the old town with a procession of holiday-themed floats and groups of dancers in spirited costumes. After enjoying the fairytale-esque festivities, head underground for more yuletide charm.
Velvet Cave (Fluweelengrot) | Nov. 16 – Dec. 29, 2024
Enjoy an ambient Christmas market underneath the Valkenburg castle ruins where you can promenade through centuries-old, warmly lit, yellow marlstone corridors. There are 50 decorated stalls against the backdrop of historic cave art and carvings.
Tickets must be purchased online.
Wheelchair accessible.
Strollers allowed.
Dogs are not allowed
Municipal Cave (Gemeentegrot) | Nov. 16 – Dec. 29, 2024
The Municipal Cave hosts Europe’s, “Largest Underground Christmas market.” This maze of a cave transforms into an extensive market experience where you can shop hundreds of stalls for the perfect gifts for friends and family. There are also plenty of snacks, drinks and foods to try. Lit Christmas trees line the marlstone walls and Santa himself walks around.
Tickets must be purchased online.
Wheelchair accessible.
Strollers allowed.
Dogs are not allowed.
Christmas Cave MergelRijk | Nov. 16, 2024 – Jan. 5, 2025
Every year, this cave is dedicated to a 30-meter-long diorama of miniatures depicting biblical Christmas stories. There are glowing sculptures carved from marlstone and you can admire winter landscapes filled with people and animals. There are also 3D cave paintings.
Tickets must be purchased online.
Not wheelchair accessible.
Strollers cannot be taken into the cave.
Dogs are not allowed.
For more information about each event and market that Valkenburg has to offer and to purchase tickets, visit christmastownvalkenburg.com.
