Poznań’s Christmas market goes by the name Betlejem Poznańskie (Poznań Bethlehem). It’s smaller than the big German markets, which is part of the charm: you can see it all in an evening and still have time for a pint.
Where and when
The main market fills Plac Wolności (Freedom Square), a five-minute walk west of the Old Market Square. In recent years the Old Market Square has had Christmas stalls and lights too. The market usually opens in the second half of November and runs until early January, with the 2026 season expected from around 21 November to 6 January. Check the organisers' pages for exact dates and opening hours before you travel.
What to eat and drink
- Grzaniec: mulled wine, or mulled beer if you want to go local, served in a mug you can keep or return.
- Oscypek: smoked sheep’s cheese from the mountains, grilled and served with cranberry jam.
- Pierogi and sausages from the grill, the classic market dinner.
- Pierniki: gingerbread, often in heart shapes, a good gift to take home.
Tips
- Go on a weekday evening, as weekends get crowded.
- Bring gloves. December evenings in Poznań drop below zero.
- Most stalls take cards, but carry a little cash for the smaller ones.
Where to warm up nearby
When your toes go numb, you’re ten minutes from Żydowska Street, north of the Old Market Square. Lot Chmiela (Żydowska 4) is a British-style pub with a long wooden bar, Guinness on draught and rotating Polish craft taps. A few doors up, Wściekły Chmiel (Żydowska 10) makes winter cocktails and serves mulled wine and house gingerbread liqueur shots. Close to Plac Wolności, Cooliozum on Święty Marcin has craft beer and the football on more than twenty screens.
Christmas parties for groups
In town with your team in December? All three venues host Christmas parties for companies and groups, with food, games and a bar tab agreed up front. Fridays book up first. See our guide to corporate events in Poznań or call +48 601 686 692.
Next: Poznań Old Market Square: a local’s guide · All Poznań guides
Come for a pint at Lot Chmiela
British-style craft beer pub with a beer garden, Żydowska 4, two minutes from the Old Market Square. Open daily from 4 pm, English spoken.