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The Alt-Rixdorf Christmas Market: A Light of Community in Old Neukölln

A historic Christmas market illuminated only by old-fashioned petroleum lamps.

For just one weekend in December, on the second Sunday of Advent, Richardplatz in the heart of the old Bohemian village of Rixdorf transforms into one of Berlin's most extraordinary Christmas markets. The Alt-Rixdorf Christmas Market is a deliberate counter-movement to the commercial hustle of the big markets. There are no professional vendors here. Instead, all stalls are run exclusively by local non-profit associations, charitable organizations, and social projects. It is a market with a heart, where every purchase and every mulled wine supports a good cause. Illuminated by hundreds of petroleum lamps instead of electric lights, it offers an incomparably nostalgic and authentic atmosphere.

Atmosphere & Ambiance: Historic, Heartfelt, and Non-Commercial

The atmosphere is what makes this market so special. It is warm, heartfelt, and incredibly community-oriented. You can feel that the people here are not driven by commercial interest, but by passion and conviction. The soft, flickering light of the petroleum lamps bathes the historic square and old buildings in a warm, almost magical glow. There is no loud music, but the murmur of visitors, the laughter of children, and perhaps a small choir singing Christmas carols.

Highlights & Attractions: Tradition and Doing Good

The Charitable Idea: The real highlight is the fact that every euro you spend goes directly to social projects, schools, daycare centers, or church communities from the district.
Historic Crafts: There are often demonstrations of old crafts, such as a blacksmith at work.
The Three Wise Men: A unique program feature is the visit of the Three Wise Men, who ride across the square on real camels.
Nostalgic Children's Attractions: Instead of high-tech rides, there is often an old, hand-operated children's carousel or a small fairy tale witch telling stories.

Culinary Delights: Just Like Grandma Used to Make

The food and drink are often homemade and prepared with love. You won't find mass-produced goods here.

Specialties: Homemade cookies, waffles from an old family recipe, hearty pea soup from a field kitchen, or baked apples.
Drinks: The mulled wine is often made from a proprietary recipe, and there are many types of children's punch and hot chocolate.

Practical Tips for Your Visit

            Weather Tip: The market is very traditional and offers only a few heated tents. Warm clothing is absolutely crucial to enjoy the evening. Since the market only takes place on one weekend, it is often well-attended in all weather conditions. Waterproof, warm shoes are ideal for the cobblestones.
        

Opening Hours: Be sure to check in advance! The market traditionally only takes place on the second weekend of Advent (Friday to Sunday).
Getting There: Richardplatz is best reached by U-Bahn (U7 Karl-Marx-Straße). From there it is about a 10-minute walk.
Bring Cash: Since most stalls are run by small associations, card payment is the absolute exception.

Conclusion

The Alt-Rixdorf Christmas Market is a gem for anyone wanting to escape the commercial Christmas rush and experience the original, community-based idea of Christmas. It is a market with a soul and an incomparable atmosphere. Anyone looking for unique, homemade gifts while doing good will find what they are looking for here. A visit is like a short, heartwarming journey into a slower, friendlier time.